£19m deal could suggest PL side are now preparing to sell dynamic winger to Newcastle – Our View

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As we approach Thursday’s 11pm deadline, Leicester forward Harvey Barnes is on the radar of Newcastle.

It was said that the financially struggling Foxes may be willing to sell the Englishman for £50m with Newcastle prepared to pay £25m for his services.

That particular rumour has since gone a bit quiet, although a fresh development could suggest Brendan Rodgers is now on the lookout for a replacement as we approach the deadline.

What’s the story?

Well, according to Fabrizio Romano, Leicester have now opened talks with Atalanta over a deal for Jeremie Boga.

Interestingly, the Ivory Coast international – who Atalanta paid €22m (£19m) for – plays on the left wing, which is where Barnes lines up for the Foxes.

Given their lack of spending money, it would be very odd for Leicester to go out and sign Boga when that position of the pitch is already taken by one of their best players in Barnes.

Romano does not mention a price tag, although seeing as Atalanta only signed the Ivorian as recently as January, we would presume they want to recoup their £19m.

Boga made 18 appearances out on the left flank for the Serie A side last season, where he failed to score, but did provide three assists.

In the same position, Barnes made 44 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 13 assists.

Therefore, of all the positions Rodgers could spend the Wesley Fofana money on, it is very intriguing to see competition for the England international set to arrive.

Romano adds that Boga is keen on a move to the King Power Stadium, so keep an eye on developments.

Harvey Barnes would shine for Newcastle

In our view, Eddie Howe would have a Champions League level attack if he added Barnes to the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin and Alexander Isak.

Despite the club-record arrival of the latter, it has been said that Newcastle are still in the market for another forward with Watford attacker Joao Pedro on the radar along with Barnes.

Leicester would surely prefer to keep their No.7 at this stage of the transfer window, but amid financial problems at the King Power Stadium, it certainly isn’t unfeasible that Barnes joins Fofana in leaving the Midlands.