After Arjen Robben and Eden Hazard, old rivals Chelsea and Manchester United are set to battle it out for another winger. It is reported that Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United is likely to cause an intense transfer race between the two Premier League giants in the upcoming summer.
From a total number of 20 appearances across competitions, 27-year-old Barnes has managed seven goals and an assist. He has registered seven shots on target from 18 total shots in the Premier League this season so far for the thirteenth-placed Magpies. With Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho out of Rúben Amorim's equation, United is on the lookout for another quality winger who can join Amad Diallo in the attacking ranks. The plan will be to employ them together at either flank in an effort to increase the side's attacking sharpness.
Chelsea, meanwhile, think it is alright to spend as much as £60 million for Barnes, with Raheem Sterling unlikely to get any playtime under Enzo Maresca. The Englishman is contracted with Newcastle until 2028, who will be keen to keep him if not for an exuberantly high bid. He is going to be hard to replace, but it needs to be seen if they can withstand pressure from two powerhouses of the league.
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A mid-season switch by Barnes is not ruled out either, as both clubs are willing to increase the sum they are willing to offer for the winger, Fichajes said in a report. The Leicester City graduate fits the systems of both clubs, which makes him a prized property that neither managers would like to lose out to the other. "With the transfer window fast approaching, all signs point to Manchester United and Chelsea continuing their aggressive push. The £60 million offer makes it clear that both clubs understand the player's value and are prepared to fight to the end for a transfer that could become one of the biggest deals of the winter," the Spanish media reported.
He is an energetic winger that loves to drive with the ball forward, known for progressive and simple passes. His acceleration on the ball is key to his success, along with good dribbling skills, which makes him a clear favourite during 1v1 situations.