Albion are tentatively preparing their next step should Dan Ashworth be tempted by an offer from Newcastle United.

But they do not want to see their highly-regarded technical director leave.

Ashworth will hold initial talks with Newcastle after Albion gave him the all-clear.

Albion would love him to stay where he is but have a policy of allowing staff to talk to potential new employees if the approach is made in the right way.

It is understood they will always have thoughts on their next step already in mind should a key employee such as Ashworth depart.

They realise Newcastle could offer an intriguing new challenge and huge pay rise and accept he will be a very strong candidate to land the post in the North East.

But they are equally aware an initial conversation might persuade him he is better where he is and they are not yet actively looking to recruit a replacement.

FANS COULD FACE ANOTHER PREMIER LEAGUE LOCKOUT

The timing of Newcastle’s approach is made more delicate by the proximity of the next transfer widow.

Ashworth would immediately cease to be part of Albion’s plans for January should it become clear he is likely to join a rival.