Aston Villa are one of several Premier League clubs eyeing a move for Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes, according to the Daily Mail.
The 27-year-old has played second fiddle to Anthony Gordon for most of the season and will be looking for a place where he can start regularly.
Despite being the second choice at his favoured left-wing position, Barnes has still registered nine goals and five assists in 30 Premier League appearances.
Villa are concerned about Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which limit spending, but they could consider a swap deal for Jacob Ramsey, a player Newcastle admire.
Barnes gives Villa a directness in attack and would be lethal beside Morgan Rogers and Leon Bailey behind Ollie Watkins at centre-forward.
He has struggled to take Gordon’s starting berth, but he would be guaranteed a place in the starting XI at Villa, especially with Marcus Rashford leaving after his loan spell.
Rashford was a massive boost for Villa in the second half of the season, and they will be hoping that Barnes can provide the same value.
The Villains are also on course to seal a place in European competition, which will entice the player.
Barnes was expected to leave St James’ Park in the winter transfer window, but eventually stayed. The summer transfer market is another opportunity to move.
However, it is unclear if Newcastle will sanction a move for the player. Barnes moved ahead of Gordon in the pecking order after the latter picked up a red card against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Villa’s PSR problems could also prove a stumbling block to the deal, as they have limited room to manoeuvre financially.
