Brown speculates Newcastle decision on selling Harvey Barnes as Premier League club circle

Harvey Barnes is increasingly likely to remain at Newcastle United beyond the summer transfer window despite interest from Premier League rivals.

The 28-year-old has been in and out of the side this season but has performed when called upon, and found the net in the 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest last time out.

He is believed to have a number of suitors across the Premier League, but amid concerns about their spending power, Newcastle hope to keep him around.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Barnes has established himself as an important part of Eddie Howe’s plans.

The winger has stepped up when needed at St James’ Park and is viewed as a valuable member of the squad as Newcastle assess their transfer plans.

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Brown told Football Insider earlier this season that Newcastle planned to keep Barnes despite initially considering entertaining offers for his signature.

Having struggled to establish himself as a regular in Howe’s side, clubs had aimed to prise him away, but the Magpies are now reluctant to see him leave.

Meanwhile, the potential departure of Anthony Gordon could see his teammate handed increased minutes in the starting XI from next season.

“Harvey Barnes definitely has an important role to play at Newcastle,” Brown told Football Insider.

“Especially with Gordon seemingly on his way out, they’ve already got Barnes there to step into that role, so they’ll want to keep him around.

“I’m sure there are a few Premier League clubs who have looked at him because he is highly thought of and has been since his time at Leicester.

“My concern about Barnes has been about his consistency, I think he gives you three or four games of top performances, then the next three or four you don’t see him.

“But for Newcastle, they’re happy with what he’s done this season, 16 goals is a very good record and they’ll be pleased with what he’s contributed.

“So they’ll be looking to keep him around as part of the team and they definitely won’t want to strengthen any Premier League rivals by letting him go there.”

Barnes’ future at Newcastle could be boosted by the potential departure of Gordon, who is gearing up to leave St James’ Park at the end of the season.

Interest from a number of clubs across Europe including the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Bayern Munich is believed to have turned his head, with a move now likely.

Brown told Football Insider on 4 May that Bayern Munich is Gordon’s preferred destination, and he currently has his eyes set on a move to the Bundesliga.

The opportunity to play for Bayern Munich will prove difficult to turn down, and Gordon now has his eyes set on linking up with Vincent Kompany’s side.

The England international is keen on a move away from the Premier League and could link up with his national teammate Harry Kane in Bavaria.

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