‘Harvey Barnes latest as fresh Newcastle transfer plan is revealed’
Newcastle United’s transfer plan for winger Harvey Barnes has become clear after a key update on his future.
The 27-year-old was not a guaranteed starter for the Toon Army last season and is subject to a move away from the North East.
Barnes joined the club from Leicester City in 2023 for £38m, and contributed nine goals and five assists last season.
As exclusively revealed by Football Insider, the Magpies are open to offers for Barnes if they can secure a replacement in this window.
Barnes could be set for shock swap with Forest star
Chronicle Live report that Barnes could be part of a swap deal this summer with Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga.
It is reported that the two clubs have held talks over a possible deal, however Forest insist he is not for sale.
Elanga would set the Toon back around £60m so including Barnes in any deal could be a way of making a deal work.
Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo though will be reluctant to lose Elanga if Morgan Gibbs-White departs with speculation also surrounding his future at the City Ground.
Midlands rivals Aston Villa are also reportedly interested in Barnes this summer after being unable to keep Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford due to his wage demands.
Departure may be needed for Elanga deal
Football Insider verdict
Newcastle are in a better position this summer with PSR rules than last year, but this potential swap deal could be a way around spending big.
It seems unlikely that Forest would agree to such a deal with Elanga one of their key players.
| Appearances | 43 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 12 |
Elanga may want a move to St James’ Park though as Newcastle have Champions League football next season, whilst Forest had to settle the Europa Conference League after looking like they were destined for Europe’s premier competition.
Eddie Howe is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of their Champions League return with the club still interested in Marc Guehi, James Trafford and Joao Pedro.
Speculation still remains over striker Alexander Isak’s future, and the money secured from that deal would be able to land the signing of Elanga.
Anthony Gordon could also be subject to offers this summer, which too could signal the arrival of the Forest winger.