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Newcastle United have emerged as the frontrunners in the chase of Leicester City’s Harvey Barnes, with Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United also interested.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is eager to add a new left-winger to his squad, and Barnes is at the top of his wishlist. The possible exit of Allan Saint-Maximin, who has drawn interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, might allow Newcastle to sign Barnes.
Newcastle has already bolstered their midfield with the acquisition of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan, and now Howe’s focus is on reinforcing their attacking options. Barnes, who holds a valuation of £50 million, is expected to depart Leicester following their relegation from the Premier League.
During the previous season, Howe frequently utilised Alexander Isak, Miguel Almirón, Saint-Maximin, and Anthony Gordon in wide positions. While Saint-Maximin brings excitement to the team, his inconsistency has been a concern, and parting ways with him would provide Newcastle with additional financial resources for transfers.
The exact transfer fee Leicester will demand for Barnes remains uncertain, especially after their recent sale of James Maddison to Tottenham for £40 million. Initial reports suggested that Leicester would seek £50 million for the 25-year-old winger, but they might be willing to accept a lower fee considering their relegation to the Championship.
West Ham United has also shown interest in Barnes as they aim to reinforce their left side. Manager David Moyes, who is expected to have substantial funds at his disposal following the anticipated departure of Declan Rice to Arsenal for £105 million, admires Barnes for his goal-scoring ability, having netted 13 goals last season.
West Ham’s current left-wing options, including Saïd Benrahma, Maxwel Cornet, and Pablo Fornals, all face uncertain futures. Cornet has struggled with injuries since joining from Burnley last summer and is reportedly available for sale, Fornals has only one year remaining on his contract, and Benrahma might be enticed by a new challenge.
While both West Ham and Aston Villa will compete in European competitions next season (Europa League and Europa Conference League, respectively), Newcastle’s probable presence in the Champions League could be significant in their pursuit of Barnes.
Tottenham’s prospects of signing Barnes appear to be diminishing as the club is nearing completion of a deal to recruit Israel winger Manor Solomon from Maccabi Petah Tikva. Newcastle is also actively chasing the acquisition of Southampton right-back Tino Livramento, demonstrating their desire to enhance the team for the forthcoming season.