Aston Villa backed to seal transfer of attacker Gary Lineker loves
Aston Villa are keen on reinforcements in the transfer window as they’re set for yet another season of European football.
Unai Emery has done an exceptional job at Villa Park and even made the Villans a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League.
They took finalists PSG right down to the wire and for that, and their domestic campaign, Emery is likely to be back in the transfer market.
Chris Waddle expects Harvey Barnes to fancy Villa Park switch
Former Newcastle star Chris Waddle suggested that Harvey Barnes could be tempted by a move to Villa this summer.
He noted that Magpies boss Eddie Howe tends to hold onto players he values, but acknowledged that Barnes, like any player, wants regular game time.
He highlighted Jacob Murphy’s strong season at Newcastle but emphasised Villa’s status as a major club, likely to secure a Champions League spot.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvey Barnes | 31 | 9 | 5 |
Waddle also speculated that the 27-year-old, who spent much of his career at Leicester City and may still have ties to the Midlands, might find the prospect of joining Villa appealing.
If the rumours of Villa’s interest are accurate, Waddle believes the transfer could prove to be a smart move for both the player and the club, offering Barnes a chance to play regularly at a high level.
He told Football Insider: “I think there could be a possibility of that happening, you know, Eddie Howe, when he likes players and he gets in the players, he wants to keep hold of them, you know.
“[Jacob] Murphy’s had a great year, you know, great season, but players want to play and let’s be honest.
“Aston Villa are a big club so I’m sure Harvey Barnes, who was at Leicester for a long time, you know, maybe still has his house down in the Midlands, might be interested in it.
“Aston Villa will probably nick a Champions League spot, so if the story’s true [Villa interest], then I think it could be a good bit of business.”
Aston Villa must look into signing Barnes
Barnes would strengthen Villa’s attack by adding pace, versatility and proven Premier League quality to their frontline.
The 27-year-old Newcastle winger brings a direct, goal-threatening presence that complements Villa’s dynamic style under Emery.
His ability to play on either flank or as an attacking midfielder offers tactical flexibility, allowing him to combine with Ollie Watkins or challenge defences alongside Leon Bailey.
Gary Lineker is also a fan of the English winner and has labelled him “lovely” in the past on his X account on 20 October 2022.
Barnes has also shown immense reliability in possession, addressing Villa’s need for consistent wide options as they compete in the Champions League.
With Murphy outshining him at Newcastle, a move to Villa guarantees regular minutes, enabling Barnes to rediscover his peak form and elevate their top-four ambitions.