According to 90min, West Ham United is intensifying their efforts to secure the signing of Harvey Barnes. As relays the HardTackle, the highly-rated winger, who scored 13 goals, is expected to leave Leicester City following their relegation, attracting interest from several European clubs in the summer transfer window. West Ham, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United are among the teams vying for his signature.
Harvey Barnes has been an outstanding performer for Leicester City in recent years, and it is unfortunate to witness the club’s relegation after their previous success, including winning the Premier League and the FA Cup. The consequences of their demotion are starting to unfold, with key players departing. Youri Tielemans joined Aston Villa on a free transfer, while James Maddison became Tottenham’s marquee signing for the summer.
Another talented player in Leicester’s ranks is Barnes, who has garnered significant interest from top clubs such as Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Tottenham. West Ham is also in contention for the 25-year-old’s services, along with several other players in crucial positions.
West Ham has made progress in their pursuit of Barnes by engaging in substantial discussions with Leicester over the past few weeks. They had been waiting for funds from the potential sale of Declan Rice, a transfer that appears to be nearing completion. Additionally, the Hammers are interested in Denis Zakaria from Juventus and have been advancing talks for a potential loan move for the Swiss star. Simultaneously, they aim to expedite negotiations for Barnes, seeking a prompt agreement with Leicester for his transfer.
Newcastle and Aston Villa pose the greatest threat to this transfer, as both teams can offer more enticing sporting projects than West Ham. Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if Barnes, who netted 13 goals last season, rejects David Moyes’s side during this window.
Currently, media reports suggest that West Ham may hold the advantage, possibly due to their ability to provide a more lucrative financial package compared to their competitors. With this speculative advantage in mind, West Ham could make a concerted effort to finalize the deal and bring Barnes to London.