Expert: Newcastle could accept Harvey Barnes offer after latest

Newcastle United appear poised to reshape their attacking line-up this summer, and one of the significant developments involves the potential departure of Harvey Barnes.

Following the arrival of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, the 27-year-old winger has found himself further down the pecking order at St James’ Park.

Barnes, who has already been struggling to secure a consistent place in Eddie Howe’s starting XI due to Anthony Gordon’s dominance on the left flank, may now face even fewer opportunities with Elanga entering the fold.

This situation has triggered growing speculation about his future, especially as insiders reveal that the club is open to offers.

Mick Brown, a respected figure in English football and a former chief scout at Manchester United and Sunderland, has shared insights suggesting that Barnes is no longer a central figure in Newcastle’s plans.

Brown, who maintains strong connections across the football landscape, revealed that Newcastle are prepared to cash in on the winger if a suitable offer arrives.

Barnes has shown interest in more regular first-team action, a sentiment he reportedly shares with fellow Magpie Joe Willock, and a transfer away from Newcastle could pave the way for him to reignite his career.

The market will not be short of suitors. Premier League clubs are already circling, monitoring Barnes’ situation closely.

Aston Villa have emerged as one of the potential destinations, especially after Manchester United recalled Marcus Rashford from his loan spell, opening a gap on the flanks that someone like Barnes could readily fill.

With Elanga now secured and Gordon holding firm as the primary wide threat, Newcastle could view a sale as a strategic move—one that frees up funds and squad space for further reinforcements.

According to Brown, the logic behind such a decision is simple. Barnes’ playing time is set to become even more limited, and he may seek a club where he can return to a starring role.

From Newcastle’s perspective, offloading a player who commands a significant wage but isn’t central to their tactical blueprint could make sense financially and competitively.

Brown believes that parting ways could benefit both the player and the club, a classic case of the right move at the right time. Interest is expected to be high, and Newcastle might be able to command a healthy transfer fee, which could then be reinvested in other areas of the squad.

Meanwhile, another key figure at Newcastle is also at the heart of transfer talk—Alexander Isak. Speculation surrounding the Swedish striker has intensified amid reports that Liverpool might make a move if Isak signals a desire to leave.

The rumour mill was further fueled by suggestions that Liverpool’s public interest in the striker was a tactical ploy to unsettle him. However, Newcastle have received a timely boost as Liverpool now seem closer to landing Hugo Ekitike, a long-time target for the Magpies.

This development could shift focus away from Isak, allowing Newcastle to hold firm on one of their most valuable assets. Internally, Newcastle believe that Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak may not be as aggressive as previously feared, particularly with Ekitike nearing a switch to Anfield.

This dual narrative of potential departures reflects the dynamic nature of Newcastle’s summer transfer strategy. They appear willing to let go of players like Barnes, who no longer fit the evolving framework, while doing everything in their power to retain core assets like Isak.

The club seems focused on balancing its roster, maximizing value from outgoings, and securing talent that aligns with Eddie Howe’s vision for success.

Here’s a breakdown of Barnes’ current competitive situation at Newcastle compared to his main rivals for a starting spot:

These figures highlight the uphill battle Barnes faces to reclaim a consistent role. While still a talented option, he trails behind Gordon and Elanga in productivity and minutes.

As the transfer window continues, his future will likely hinge on whether any clubs step forward with a compelling proposal—one that satisfies both the player’s ambitions and Newcastle’s strategic interests.