Newcastle have emerged as frontrunners for Harvey Barnes’ signature, despite interest from the likes of Hotspur, and United.
The winger is set for a swift return to the Premier League after the Foxes’ relegation at the end of last season.
The 25-year-old has been with Leicester since just nine years old, spending three loan spells away from the club at MK Dons, Barnsley and West Brom.
He has emerged as a big player for the Foxes over the last four seasons, making 187 appearances for the club and picked up his one England cap so far in 2020 against Wales.
Amid significant interest in bringing him straight back to the top flight, report that Newcastle are leading the race to sign Barnes as they prepare for a return to the Champions League.
Magpies boss Eddie Howe is keen to sign a new left-winger, with Allain Saint-Maximin’s future at the club in doubt after an inconsistent season, despite having cult status at St James’ Park.
Newcastle are able to offer Barnes Champions League football, while West Ham will be competing in the Europa League and Villa in the Europa Conference League. Spurs are the only interested party not able to offer the England international European football of any kind.
Barnes is under contract at Leicester until 2025 and is likely to cost a new club around £40m, especially as a bidding war is certain to ensue if a lower offer is made.
Howe is looking to make his second significant signing of the summer after securing the coup of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan in a £55m deal.
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