Journalist claims Newcastle United may offload ‘excellent’ winger this summer – Decision remains 50/50.
Eddie Howe emphasizes summer transfers will focus on additions, unlike January's focus on departures.
Newcastle United urgently needs to strengthen its squad with quality players, especially with European football looking likely next season—unless they suffer a major collapse in the final stretch.
Last season, Eddie Howe struggled with a small squad while competing on four fronts, leading to injuries and ultimately missing out on European qualification.
The club is determined not to repeat that mistake, making summer recruitment a priority.
However, while additions are expected, some departures could also be on the cards beyond those with expiring contracts.
One potential exit is Harvey Barnes, the former Leicester City winger.
Signed for £39 million, Barnes has delivered key goals in crucial matches, but he hasn’t quite made the impact Howe had envisioned.
He’s struggled to break into the starting XI ahead of Anthony Gordon, often finding himself as a super-sub.
While his ability to make an impact off the bench is valuable, the 27-year-old won’t be satisfied with a bit-part role, believing he deserves more.
Martin O’Neill has praised Barnes as an ‘excellent’ player, and he was a top target for Howe.
Initially, many thought Newcastle was scouting James Maddison at Leicester, but it turned out Barnes was the real focus.
Despite the initial excitement, his future at the club remains uncertain.
Journalist Craig Hope recently stated in a YouTube video that Barnes’ chances of staying at Newcastle next season are 50/50.
Like Callum Wilson, Barnes appears to be playing for his future in the remaining games of the campaign.
Whether he stays or moves on could depend on his performances in the crucial weeks ahead.
