Sources: Newcastle set to sell first-team star to make room for marquee signing
Newcastle United need to make room in their squad for the signing of Harvey Barnes by offloading another first-teamer, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider revealed on Friday (7 July) that the Magpies are pushing to complete a deal for the 25-year-old Leicester City star.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe believes the England international fits the profile of player he is keen to bring to St James’ Park – with his age and Premier League experience making him an attractive prospect.
But nevertheless, it is believed the Tynesiders will need to make room for Barnes’ arrival by selling a first-team star in the summer window.
The north-east giants already have Anthony Gordon, Allan Saint-Maximin, Ryan Fraser, Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy capable of playing in a left-wing berth.
Much-needed revenue is needed to boost their transfer kitty – with Newcastle already spending a reported £55million to sign Italy international Sandro Tonali from AC Milan.
The Saudi-backed outfit have had a net spend of more than £300million since the takeover of the club in 2021.
Newcastle have stepped up their interest in Barnes as part of their three-signing plan to close out their summer business.
Football Insider revealed on Friday (7 July) that Howe’s side are planning to complete deals for a left-back, centre-back and wide forward before the deadline later this summer.
Barnes managed 13 goals and three assists in 40 games across all competitions last term as Leicester suffered relegation to the Championship.
Aston Villa, West Ham and Tottenham have also been widely linked with a possible move for the one-time England international.
He is under contract at the King Power Stadium until June 2025.
Newcastle, who will play Champions League football next term, have already released Ciaran Clark and Matty Longstaff this summer – while striker Chris Wood has joined Nottingham Forest on a permanent basis.
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