Harvey Barnes: Newcastle United sign winger from Leicester in deal believed to be around £39m
Harvey Barnes is lined up to replace Saudi Arabia-bound Allan Saint-Maximin at Newcastle; he leaves Leicester having scored 13 Premier League goals last season as they were relegated to the Championship; Barnes, 25, made 187 appearances for the Foxes after coming through the club’s academy
Harvey Barnes has completed his move to Newcastle from Leicester for a fee believed to be around £39m on a five-year deal.
Barnes is expected to be the replacement for Allan Saint-Maximin, who is nearing a transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli which could earn Newcastle up to £40m.
Leicester were looking for £40m for the 25-year-old, with Newcastle hoping to do a deal at around £30m but the clubs have now found a resolution.
Barnes made 187 appearances for Leicester and won the FA Cup after coming through the club’s academy.
His 13 goals for the club last season was a career-best despite their relegation from the Premier League.
Barnes made 187 appearances for Leicester and won the FA Cup after coming through the club’s academy.
His 13 goals for the club last season was a career-best despite their relegation from the Premier League.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe added: “Harvey is an exciting talent who I have admired for a long time so I’m delighted to welcome him to Newcastle United.
“He is strong, quick and very good technically, and he showed last season in particular that he has an eye for goal from wide positions.
“He will add a different element to our play and we look forward to working with him as we prepare for the season ahead.”
Analysis: Barnes adds to Newcastle goal threat
Sky Sports football feature writer Adam Bate:
At 25, Harvey Barnes is at his peak but he is still a player who is adding to his game. Eddie Howe and Newcastle will believe they are acquiring someone who can build on what he has already shown during a lengthy Premier League career with Leicester City.
No player outside the clubs in the top half of the table scored more goals than Barnes in the competition last season. Those 13 goals – by far the best return during his time with the Foxes – reflect the growing goal threat of the direct-running winger.
Speaking to Barnes in May, he acknowledged the change. “I have adapted my game a little bit by getting central and running in behind more. It is down to me to stretch the game in behind. A few of my goals have come from being in a striker’s position.”
It is asking a lot for Barnes to thrill the St James’ Park crowds in the same way as fan favourite Allan Saint-Maximin. But the new signing is younger and boasts a scoring record that suggests he can be more effective too. An opportunity for player and club.
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