Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have already battled it out for one player this summer, and the gossip columns suggest that they could be about to do it all over again.
James Maddison was the centre of a transfer tussle between Newcastle and Spurs, but it was Ange Postecoglu’s side who came out on top. The Magpies conceded defeat, accepting that a deal for the 26-year-old was not essential as they look to stretch their transfer budget as far as possible.
The latest name on Newcastle’s radar is Harvey Barnes, and he is also someone who has been linked with Tottenham. The North London side are reportedly keen, as well as West Ham and Aston Villa.
However, it is Eddie Howe’s side who are seemingly leading the chase, and an update from Fabrizio Romano suggests that Newcastle do not need to worry about being gazumped by Spurs.
Tottenham unlikely to move for Harvey Barnes
Romano has spoke to Caught Offside about the race to sign Barnes from Leicester City, and does not expect Tottenham to make a move.
“Barnes is appreciated by Newcastle,” he said.
“At the moment it’s not particularly close or advanced, but there are contacts as he’s one of the players they like.
“Tottenham only inquired about him 20 days ago but it now seems clear that the new signing in that position will be Manor Solomon.”
Looking good for Newcastle
Romano has stated that Tottenham’s imminent deal to sign Manor Solomon will mean that they do not pursue a move for Barnes, who they have already bid for this summer.
Spurs launched a double bid for both Maddison and Barnes, which was rejected. In the end, they went all in on the former after Newcastle ended their interest.
Now it could be Tottenham pulling out of a race, strengthening the Magpies’ hopes of signing the rapid left winger.
It would mean we only need to fend off interest from Villa and West Ham – although each side will fancy their chances. A move to Villa would allow him to play in Europe, with the added bonus of not having to relocate his family. Joining West Ham would also allow him to play in Europe, while they have cash to splash as Declan Rice closes in on a departure.
As for Newcastle, we too can offer the 25-year-old European football, but our Champions League qualification trumps the Europa and Europa Conference League.
That will hopefully give us the edge in the race to sign Barnes, and recent reports suggest that we are indeed the favourites.
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