‘Big upgrade’: Perry Groves wowed by Newcastle United’s ‘perfect’ transfer call

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Perry Groves says Newcastle United have brought in a ‘big upgrade’ in the form of Harvey Barnes following his transfer from Leicester City.

The former Arsenal player thinks the 13-goal Premier League wide man is ‘perfect’ for what Eddie Howe is cooking at St James’ Park, as he told talkSPORT.

With Newcastle United over in America for their pre-season tour, Harvey Barnes, even without training with his teammates yet, got a taste of first-team action with his new side.

The Magpies recorded a 3-3 draw against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa on Sunday, with Barnes coming off the bench late in the second half. 

Now, the 25-year-old will want to get to work to build up his fitness and possibly earn more minutes when Howe’s side takes on Chelsea on Thursday.

Either way, with the Barnes deal being signed, sealed and delivered, Groves likes what Newcastle are building ahead of their season in the Champions League.

“Big upgrade,” said Groves. “Perfect player profile for Newcastle.

“If you look in the past, they have signed players like Nick Pope, Matt Targett, Dan Burn and Kieran Trippier. Just good solid pros, who aren’t going to give you any hassle off the pitch and they know what the Premier League is about.

“Harvey Barnes, last season for Leicester, he got 13 goals in a really poor side that got relegated. You can never question his work rate or attitude. That’s when you judge players when things aren’t going well for the team. He is finding balls better. His finishing is better.

“He will be looking for 13-15 goals for Newcastle. In the transfer window, they have been very shrewd with their acquisitions. They have suited Eddie Howe’s remit for a player.”

Goalscorer Barnes

Well, after hitting 13 in a pretty poor side last season, if you are a Newcastle fan, then you will expect Barnes to hit those same numbers next term.

Depending on who plays down the middle – Callum Wilson or Alexander Isak – the Toon Army faithful are going to watch some serious firepower going forward.

Barnes, Miguel Almiron, Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak are all capable of hitting double figures for the team, and if they do, then expect fireworks.