Newcastle tipped to land classy winger after ‘huge’ update; Everton could now sign departure-bound Toon star

Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes reportedly ‘wants to join’ Newcastle United as he continues to be linked with a departure from the King Power Stadium.

The 25-year-old put in some good performances for the Foxes last term but was ultimately unable to prevent them from being relegated to the Championship.

This has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs. But, Newcastle have been considered to be favourites to sign him for a while.

It’s no secret that Eddie Howe is keen to add a quality winger to his squad this summer. Now, it seems Newcastle are set to make a move for Barnes.

According to Football Insider, the Magpies are ‘pushing’ to sign the England international. And, their pursuit has just received an added boost.

Indeed, the report adds that Barnes is ‘ keen to leave Leicester City for Newcastle.’ The prospect of playing Champions League football is said to be a ‘huge draw.’

Last season, Barnes made 34 Premier League appearances. In the process, he scored an impressive 13 goals and made one assist.

The Foxes have already sold James Maddison to Tottenham for a fee of £40m this summer. And, equally, the Foxes won’t let Barnes go cheap.

Reports suggest that Leicester will entertain offers in the region of £50m. But, may be forced into accepting less due to being relegated.

Interestingly, if Newcastle do sign Barnes, it may have ramifications for one of their most popular players.

Indeed, Allan Saint-Maximin has been linked with a departure from St James’ Park for some time. So, Barnes’ arrival may be the final step before Howe sanctions his sale.

Despite being a key player for Newcastle in the past, the Frenchman has seen his minutes gradually diminish under Howe.

Overall, Saint-Maximin has made 124 appearances for the Tynesiders, scoring 13 goals and making 21 assists in the process.

Now, according to 90Min, Everton and Crystal Palace are among several clubs who have ‘asked about’ signing the exciting winger.

It’s no secret that Sean Dyche is looking to add attacking options to his squad as he looks to avoid a third consecutive relegation battle at Goodison Park.

So, bringing in Saint-Maximin could prove to be a good bit of business. But, as mentioned, Everton face competition for his signature.

Along with Crystal Palace, there is strong interest from the Saudi Pro League for the 26-year-old, while AC Milan are also ‘admirers.’

Whether or not Everton make a concrete move for Saint-Maximin remains to be seen. But, what seems likely is that if Barnes does join Newcastle, the Frenchman will be moving elsewhere this summer.

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