Ashley likes nothing better than winding up the Newcastle fans, and the prospect of the former Man Utd winger leaving SJP would be greeted with approval.
The 24 year old Frenchman came to St James’ Park back in August 2011, hoping to reignite a career that had stagnated on the Old Trafford bench.
But the former Bordeaux man has started just four Premier League fixtures in the past two seasons.
A Mike Ashley's ‘club insider’ (which gives the article NO cred) says: “Attacking players are a priority for us this summer, particularly in the wide areas.
“We’re delighted to have Tom Ince on loan for the rest of this season but we’re not sure we’ll be able to keep him.
“There are a few players the club is looking at as an alternative and Obertan’s name has come up as a good option.”