Brendan Rodgers previously backed Newcastle United target Harvey Barnes to become a “top player” in the coming years. A report by The Sun claims the Leicester City midfielder is on United’s radar as Eddie Howe aims to bolster his attacking options.
Progress has been slow on incomings in recent weeks, with the focus switching to offloading surplus players to trim an oversized squad. Just under six weeks of the transfer window remain and Newcastle are eyeing offensive reinforcements.
The Sun suggest Toon chiefs are some distance from meeting the Foxes’ £50million price tag. Hefty demands have been placed on Barnes by Leicester to stave off interest from a direct Premier League rival.
Newcastle United 40-page pre season guide available to pre-order now, CLICK HERE to order. Also available to purchase through local participating retailers from Saturday July 30, 2022.
Newcastle are understood to only value the 24-year-old at £25million - a figure that would be swiftly rejected. Interest remains in the player but the Magpies must delve deeper into their pockets if they wish to land their man.
ChronicleLive profiled what Rodgers and pundits have said about Barnes while the saga unfolds.
Brendan Rodgers
Last year, the Leicester boss backed Barnes to become a future Premier League star. An interesting side note is how he refers to the midfielder’s “humble” attitude - an integral part of Newcastle’s recruitment process.
The new regime at St James’ Park have prioritised the right characters when shortlisting potential targets. Speaking ahead of a game against West Ham United, Rodgers said: “I believe he’s going to become a really, really top player in the next few years.
“When I came in you could see the talent but he needed to score more goals and week by week he started to do that. I think the only thing that will stop him will be availability. If he can stay injury-free, and get that little bit of luck, you can just see his game coming together.
“He’s got that hunger and is gaining confidence all the time. What’s great about Harvey is he’s a very humble boy, he doesn’t get carried away with it. He comes in with a wonderful attitude.”
Steve Howey
Former Toon defender Howey was not surprised to see Barnes linked with a move to Liverpool last summer.
“Without a doubt, Jurgen Klopp would have been looking around to see what he could do to add to his squad,” he told Transfer Tavern. “I think Harvey Barnes would have been a good acquisition. Their (Liverpool) interest doesn’t surprise me”
Barnes responded to the rumours on the Beautiful Game podcast earlier this year, leaving the door open for a potential exit. He said: “The young players we have at the minute… it’s such exciting times and you hope that the whole group can stay here for as long as they can and keep progressing.
“But, you know, things happen in football. Someone may end up leaving and then you need to get someone else in. For us, we have to enjoy it and keep progressing and playing exciting football.”
Garth Crooks
The BBC pundit actually criticised the 24-year-old after Leicester’s 3-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in 2019. Ironically, he compared Barnes to Christian Eriksen - a player previously linked to Newcastle before signing for Manchester United.
“If Harvey Barnes had a little composure in front of goal, he’d be dangerous,” Crooks said. “Conversely, Christian Eriksen looked cultured and shone like a diamond in the rough.”
READ NEXT
Newcastle's 'top quality players' search as a couple more deals targeted after Moussa Diaby blow
Eddie Howe reveals 'richest club in world' truth as Newcastle transfer targets' prices go up
Newcastle transfer profile wish as club prepare to say emotional farewell to another stalwart
RB Salzburg make Benjamin Sesko transfer situation 'very clear' after agent's Newcastle visit
Newcastle owners excited as Premier League about to be shaken up
