In a significant move, Newcastle United announced the signing of England winger Harvey Barnes from Leicester City in a deal reportedly worth £38 million ($48 million). The 25-year-old has agreed to a five-year contract with the Magpies, ensuring his continued presence in the Premier League despite Leicester’s relegation to the Championship at the end of last season.
Harvey Barnes is expected to fill the void left by Allan Saint-Maximin, who is reportedly set to join Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli. Saint-Maximin’s impending departure has prompted Newcastle to seek a suitable replacement, and Barnes emerged as an attractive option.
The winger expressed his excitement about joining Newcastle, describing it as an “amazing club” and a “massive opportunity” to be part of a successful team that is doing exciting things. Barnes praised Newcastle’s playing style, which he believes suits his attacking skills, with its high pace and physical demands that lead to numerous chances and goals.
With the prospect of playing in the Champions League next season due to Newcastle’s top-four finish in the Premier League last term, Barnes is looking forward to making his mark on the European stage. Newcastle’s successful campaign also saw them reach a domestic final for the first time since 1999, although they fell short against Manchester United in the League Cup final.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, expressed his delight in welcoming Barnes to the squad, praising him as an “exciting talent” he has admired for a long time. Howe believes Barnes will bring a different dimension to Newcastle’s play and is eager to work with him as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Barnes had an impressive stint with Leicester, making 187 appearances for the club after emerging from their youth academy. Last season, he contributed 13 league goals and provided one assist. He played a crucial role in helping Leicester secure their historic FA Cup victory in 2021 and even earned a cap for the England national team during a match against Wales three years ago.
Barnes is Newcastle’s second high-profile signing this summer, following the club’s £52 million swoop for AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali. The Magpies’ proactive approach in the transfer market demonstrates their ambition to bolster the squad and compete at the highest level in the upcoming season.
As the new Premier League season approaches, Newcastle fans eagerly await seeing Barnes in action, hoping he will make a significant impact on the team’s fortunes and contribute to their continued success on both domestic and European fronts.
