Newcastle United have confirmed the signing of Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes.
The Athletic reported earlier this week that the clubs had agreed a transfer fee in the region of £38million.
Barnes, 25, has signed a five-year deal with Eddie Howe’s side and is the third signing of the summer following the signings of young striker Yankuba Minteh and Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali.
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Barnes said: “I’m thrilled. It’s a great club and for me it’s a huge opportunity to be part of a successful team that does exciting things. That’s why I’m really happy to be here.
“I think it’s an attacker’s dream to come into a team like that; It’s a fast pace, it’s physically demanding, but you see the benefit in the chances and goals scored, so I think I’ll suit that style for sure.”
Howe said: “Harvey is an exciting talent who I’ve long admired, so I’m delighted to welcome him to Newcastle United.”
“He’s strong, quick and technically very good and he’s shown, especially last season, that he has an eye for goals from the wing. He will add a new element to our game and we look forward to working with him as we prepare for the upcoming season.”
A product of Leicester academy, Barnes has made 187 appearances in all competitions since his debut in 2016, scoring 45 goals.
Last season he was Leicester’s top scorer, scoring 13 goals in 34 Premier League games.
Harvey Barnes’ trademark
Last season Michael Cox analyzed Barnes’ style of play, what he brought to Leicester and what he lacked, focusing on his successful use of double wins…
“Barnes shows flashes of genius. You will not find a climber, a cheeky end or many spectacular long rangers. Barnes’ game is based almost entirely on the simplest concept in football: give and go.
“He’s a good ball carrier but undoubtedly knows his limits when it comes to hitting his opponent directly. And as a prolific winger, his main job is to get past opposing full-backs and score goals. Therefore, he compensates for his lack of tricks by tirelessly playing double wins with his teammates.
“Opposing right-backs have a special job when they play against Barnes – don’t worry too much about him running towards you with the ball, but be very careful when he throws the ball in and rushes past you.”
(Photo: Getty Images)