Newcastle United are making progress in their pursuit of Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes, but the Magpies may have to up their offer to sign the England international.
According to MailOnline via GivemeSports, Newcastle are considering an opening bid of £30 million for Barnes, but Leicester are holding out for a fee of £40 million or more.
Barnes is a highly-rated player who has scored 35 goals in 129 Premier League appearances for Leicester. He is seen as a key player for the Foxes, but they may be willing to sell him if they receive a good offer.
Newcastle are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season and Barnes would be a significant signing. He is a versatile player who can play on either wing or as a central midfielder.
If Newcastle can agree a deal with Leicester for Barnes, it would be a major coup for the club. He is a talented player who would add quality and depth to their squad.
It remains to be seen whether Newcastle will be able to meet Leicester’s asking price for Barnes, but they are certainly making progress in their pursuit of the player.
What does this mean for Newcastle United?
The pursuit of Harvey Barnes is a sign that Newcastle United are serious about their European football next season. Barnes is a quality player who would add a lot to the Magpies’ squad.
If Newcastle can agree a deal for Barnes, it would be a major statement of intent from the club. It would show that they are willing to spend money to improve their team and that they are serious about competing at the top level.
Of course, there is no guarantee that Newcastle will be able to sign Barnes. Leicester may not be willing to sell him for £30 million, and the Magpies may not be able to afford to pay more than that.
However, the fact that Newcastle are even considering a bid for Barnes shows that they are ambitious. They are not content to just make up the numbers in the Premier League, they want to be challenging for trophies.
If Newcastle can sign Barnes, it would be a major step towards achieving that goal.