July 23, (THEWILL) – Newcastle United have made a significant addition to their first-team squad this summer with the signing of winger Harvey Barnes from Leicester City.
The Magpies secured the 25-year-old’s services for a reported fee of £38 million, making him their second major signing after Sandro Tonali from AC Milan. To fund Barnes’ arrival, sources monitored by THEWILL suggest that Newcastle is on the verge of parting ways with Allan Saint-Maximin, who is set to join Saudi Pro League side, Al Ahli.
Although there was growing interest from other English Premier League clubs, including West Ham United and Aston Villa, Barnes chose to make the move to St James’ Park. Newcastle had also explored the possibility of signing his former Leicester teammate, James Maddison, earlier in the transfer window, but the midfielder preferred a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
While Barnes is yet to earn a cap for England’s senior side, he has been previously called up to Gareth Southgate’s squad. Last season, his goal-scoring skills saw him register an impressive 13 goals in the EPL, even as Leicester’s fortunes declined as the season progressed and they faced relegation to the Championship.
Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle United, is keen on strengthening his squad ahead of their return to the UEFA Champions League. The team will enter the prestigious competition as a pot four team. With the addition of Harvey Barnes, the Magpies’ attacking options improve and their chances in the upcoming campaign are better. Barnes’ arrival marks an exciting chapter for both the player and the club, as they look forward to competing among Europe’s elite.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
