The Birmingham Mail understands that West Bromwich Albion are closing in on the loan signing of Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes. Paul Suart, their senior sports writer, claims that there ‘might be something’ in these rumours, which has escalated more as the afternoon has progressed.
Barnes was not involved at the weekend in Leicester’s most recent pre-season friendly versus Sky Bet League Two side Notts County at Meadow Lane. Perhaps even more telling in a world of social media is that Barnes is now following the official West Bromwich Albion account on Twitter.
The 20-year-old attacker developed more experience of first team football in the first half of last season when on loan at Barnsley. He impressed during that stint, scoring five Championship goals in the process. Darren Moore believes he has what it takes to challenge for a spot in the WBA team ahead of their season opener next weekend.
Barnes’ reputation has continued to grow, even more so following his exploits with the England Under-20 side last year. He played a huge role in helping them win the prestigious Toulon Tournament, a competition where he claimed the Golden Boot award.
Many Foxes fans feel as though manager Claude Puel should have handed him more of an opportunity at the King Power Stadium. He did make five appearances, mostly towards the end of the previous campaign, two of which came in the FA Cup. However, they clearly hold some hope for him, given they are only willing to loan him, and not outright sell the youngster.
