Newcastle United could complete the acquisition of 25-year-old Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes by next week.
According to Rudy Galetti via GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle United are keen on having Harvey Barnes in their ranks ahead of next season. The Magpies have been in talks with Leicester City over a potential deal of late, and the two parties could reach an agreement by next week.
Eddie Howe’s team were exceptional last season. They managed to finish in the top four and are all set to feature in the Champions League in the upcoming season. With Newcastle United ready to compete in Europe’s biggest tournament, their manager is keen on bolstering his squad.
He has already managed to sign Sandro Tonali from AC Milan for a fee of £55 million. The Italian international has become the club’s second-most expensive signing of all time. His arrival will surely bolster their midfield unit. But, that is not enough, as Howe wants further reinforcement and is keen on having Harvey Barnes in their ranks.
The Leicester City forward has been on the radar of multiple top clubs from across Europe of late. With the Foxes relegated to the Championship, clubs are well aware that they will be in need of funds and will be ready to offload the 25-year-old for a bargain price.
As a result, there is a lot of competition for the England international’s services. Meanwhile, Leicester have demanded £40 million for his services but might have to suffice with £35 million. While West Ham United are also interested in him, the Magpies are optimistic about striking a deal with the Foxes.
Galetti on Barnes to Newcastle: “Discussions are ongoing at a good pace and Eddie Howe wants Barnes. Despite the talks being at a good stage between West Ham and Leicester, Harvey Barnes prefers to join Newcastle and he has already agreed the terms of his move. Now it’s up to the clubs, as Newcastle are willing to pay around £35m for the English player. As told, during the next week the deal could be finalised.”
Even the player prefers joining Newcastle United over West Ham as the Magpies have Champions League football to offer. Galetti believes the next week will be decisive for Barnes’s potential transfer to Eddie Howe’s team. As a result, a decision is expected soon.
While the Foxes struggled throughout the 2022/23 Premier League season, Barnes surely managed to do his bit. He featured in a total of 34 matches and contributed towards 14 goals, finding the back of the net 13 times. But, his efforts were not good enough to save Leicester from the drop.
Howe believes he could be a great addition to their ranks and will help them take the next step. Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, and the Magpies are ready to offer around £35 million. With the player keen on the move and talks progressing Galetti believes a deal could be finalised next week.
