EPL: Newcastle set to sign Harvey Barnes from Leicester
Newcastle United are closing in on the signing of Harvey Barnes and hope to agree a deal with Leicester City for the winger over the next week.
Barnes has been a target of West Ham United, who had been at the front of the queue, and Aston Villa, but Newcastle have stolen a march on their rivals.
It is expected that Newcastle will submit their first bid for Barnes over the next few days, with the player keen to join the Champions League club.
Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe wants to increase his options on the left wing and the club is expected to win the race for Barnes, who is likely to cost around £35m.
Howe often used Alexander Isak, Miguel Almirón, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Anthony Gordon in the wide positions last season. Newcastle could make space for Barnes by selling Saint-Maximin, who has interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, and need to add depth as they prepare to compete in the Champions League.
Leicester have been resigned to losing Barnes since their relegation from the Premier League. They had hoped to receive £50m for the England international, who scored 13 goals last season, but are likely to have to settle for less. Newcastle had a bid rejected for the 25-year-old last summer.
Leicester have already brought in £40m after selling James Maddison to Tottenham. They have prepared for life in the Championship by signing Harry Winks and Conor Coady.
Newcastle had already announced the £60 million signing of Sandro Tonali earlier this week. The deal made the midfielder the most expensive Italian of all time, £11m more than the £49m Chelsea paid for Jorginho in 2018.
The star has penned a five-year contract, which includes the option of a further 12 months, at St. James’ Park and can’t wait to get started for his new club.
