It has been suggested Carroll's bad reputation has given Ashley cause for concern.
The youngster has a terrible track record -
1) Sent home while on duty in Holland with the England Youth team.
2) Sent home after an incident when he was on loan at Deepdale (and Preston knocked back the offer of another three month loan spell saying "We don't want him back").
3) His up-and-coming court case for assault with a bottle (that could see him do four years if it goes against him).
4) His training ground bust-up with Steven Taylor, when he broke Taylor's jaw.
Ashley was willing to cancel Joey Barton's contract when he was sent to jail, but Kevin Keegan persuaded the Toon owner to have a rethink.
But, if rumours are to be believed, Carroll could be on his way.