Harvey Barnes Set for Swift Return to Premier League with Newcastle
Newcastle United have emerged as frontrunners to sign Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes, despite interest from the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and West Ham United. The 25-year-old is set for a swift return to the Premier League after the Foxes’ relegation at the end of last season.
Barnes has been with Leicester since just nine years old, spending three loan spells away from the club at MK Dons, Barnsley and West Brom. He has emerged as a big player for the Foxes over the last four seasons, making 187 appearances for the club and picked up his one England cap so far in 2020 against Wales.
The Guardian report that Newcastle are leading the race to sign Barnes as they prepare for a return to the Champions League. Magpies boss Eddie Howe is keen to sign a new left-winger, with Allain Saint-Maximin’s future at the club in doubt after an inconsistent season, despite having cult status at St James’ Park.
What Makes Newcastle an Attractive Destination for Barnes?
Newcastle are able to offer Barnes Champions League football, while West Ham will be competing in the Europa League and Villa in the Europa Conference League. Spurs are the only interested party not able to offer the England international European football of any kind. This could be a deciding factor in Barnes’ decision as he looks to make his return to the Premier League.
Barnes is under contract at Leicester until 2025 and is likely to cost a new club around £40m, especially as a bidding war is certain to ensue if a lower offer is made. Howe is looking to make his second significant signing of the summer after securing the coup of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan in a £55m deal.
The Magpies are also in a strong financial position, having recently secured a £300m investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This could give them an advantage over their rivals in the race for Barnes’ signature.
Barnes’ Potential Impact at Newcastle
Barnes has been a key player for Leicester over the last four seasons, scoring 27 goals and providing 24 assists in all competitions. He has also shown his versatility, playing on both wings and as an attacking midfielder.
He is known for his pace and direct running style, which could make him an ideal fit for Howe’s attacking style of play. His ability to play on either wing could also give Newcastle more flexibility in attack, allowing them to switch formations and tactics depending on the opposition.
Barnes’ arrival could also provide competition for places on the wings, with Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron both vying for a starting spot. This could help to bring out the best in both players and give Newcastle more options in attack.
Conclusion
Newcastle have emerged as frontrunners to sign Harvey Barnes from Leicester City this summer. The 25-year-old is set for a swift return to the Premier League after the Foxes’ relegation at the end of last season.
Barnes has been with Leicester since just nine years old, spending three loan spells away from the club at MK Dons, Barnsley and West Brom. He has emerged as a big player for the Foxes over the last four seasons, making 187 appearances for the club and picked up his one England cap so far in 2020 against Wales.
Newcastle are able to offer Barnes Champions League football, while West Ham will be competing in the Europa League and Villa in the Europa Conference League. Spurs are the only interested party not able to offer the England international European football of any kind.
Barnes’ arrival could provide competition for places on the wings, with Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron both vying for a starting spot. This could help to bring out the best in both players and give Newcastle more options in attack.