Newcastle United could make ‘signing of the season’ with £35m capture

Newcastle United transfer target Harvey Barnes can ‘take the next step in his career’ if he opts to complete a move to St James Park in the near future.

The Leicester City star is a long-term target for Magpies manager Eddie Howe and speculation over a move to Tyneside has ramped up in the aftermath of the Foxes relegation from the Premier League. Talks over a deal that could cost United an initial £35million are ongoing and there have been suggestions there is genuine hope an agreement can be found over the coming days.

Despite being part of a struggling side last season, Barnes still returned some impressive statistics by scoring 13 goals and providing three assists in 40 appearances in all competitions and would leave the King Power Stadium with an overall total of 77 goal involvements in 187 games should he accept a move before the end of the transfer window.

Former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest striker Stan Collymore believes Barnes would be a ‘shrewd signing’ for the Magpies and backed the talented winger to add to his solitary England cap if he improves under United manager Howe.

Speaking to CaughtOffside, the former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest striker said: “What a great deal that would be if they can get it over the line. He has a decent goalscoring record for Leicester City, it’s about one in four; that’s not bad at all, especially when you take into account how dreadful their season was last time out.

“I do think Eddie Howe will aim to improve that though; I think he’ll want him netting closer to one in every three games. He’s only 25 years old so he hasn’t yet reached his prime and if he can do well at St. James’ Park under Howe then I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he adds to his single England cap. He looks hungry enough to take the next step in his career too.

“Also, if he does sign for Newcastle and ends up playing well next term, especially in the Champions League, then for £25 million, he’s going to look even more a shrewd signing, and could easily be the signing of the season.”