Newcastle United know they need to become better at player trading.
In the world of PSR, Newcastle United must improve when it comes to selling players.
There are signs of that happening under Paul Mitchell. Miguel Almiron signed for Atlanta United in January, while Lloyd Kelly is joining Juventus permanently.
Those deals have improved the Magpies’ PSR position, as they prepare to reinvest this summer. Newcastle want at least three signings, and could bring in more if they are able to sell and increase their budget.
That represents an issue, as Eddie Howe does not have many saleable assets.
Harvey Barnes attracting interest ahead of the summer transfer window
It could be argued that Harvey Barnes is one, and he is attracting interest from the Premier League ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to the Daily Mail, multiple Premier League clubs are showing an interest in Barnes.
Aston Villa are the only club that is named.
It was reported in December 2024 that Newcastle were expecting interest in Barnes during the January transfer window. At the time, the winger was struggling to be a regular starter at St James’ Park.
It was claimed that Barnes was frustrated by his lack of minutes, but he has gone on to play a major role in the second half of the season.
Barnes has started 10 games in a row for the Magpies – his longest run since arriving from Leicester City for £39million. He has been decisive too, with Barnes bagging eight goal contributions during that period.
In total, Barnes has scored nine goals and provided five assists in all competitions this season.
With that in mind, Newcastle would be crazy to cash in.
Newcastle United must not repeat Allan Saint-Maximin trick
Selling Barnes would massively help Newcastle’s PSR position.
His form in recent months would allow them to command a huge fee. In turn, that would allow Newcastle United to reinvest in a big way.
In relative terms, he is probably the best player that Newcastle United could afford to lose this summer. However, that does not mean they should.
It is a contrast to 2023, which is when Barnes joined the club.
That summer, Newcastle United needed to sell to buy. The decision was made to let Allan Saint-Maximin go, with the Frenchman joining Al-Ahli for £23million.
While Eddie Howe wanted to keep Saint-Maximin, he was the most valuable player that the Magpies were willing to move on.
That deal actually saw Barnes arrive as his replacement, while a deal for Tino Livramento was struck too.
Saint-Maximin was a saleable asset, and his departure allowed Newcastle to reinvest.
Selling Barnes in 2025 would do the same, but his form as of late has proven that he absolutely must stay at St James’ Park.
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