OPINION
West Brom would certainly not have the same cutting edge in their attack had they not signed Harvey Barnes on loan from Leicester City in the summer, which is why there will be plenty of fears over a potential recall to the Foxes this month.
With nine goals and eight assists this season, the 21-year-old has been outstanding for Darren Moore’s side with his vision and quality in possession, ensuring that the likes of Dwight Gayle and Jay Rodriguez receive the service they need to stick the ball in the back of the net.
However, could his time at the Hawthorns be over sooner than the Baggies had hoped or expected?
The Mirror claim that Leicester are ready to send Fousseni Diabate off to Turkey on loan and with his exit leaving a void when it comes to backup attackers, the report states that Barnes could be taken back to the King Power Stadium to plug the gap.
With the 21-year-old’s exit looking like a real possibility now, Moore and his transfer team have to find a suitable option to fill a void of their own – which could be sorted with a move for Newcastle United’s Jacob Murphy.
The 23-year-old has been a total flop for the Magpies since signing from Norwich City in the summer of 2017 and after his latest outing against Blackburn Rovers, a match in which he looked devoid of confidence or talent, his exit from St James’ Park should not be hard.
On a reported £25,000-a-week (source: Spotrac) the winger has enough Championship experience – 46 games and 10 goals worth – to shine for any team in the second tier and while he might not be in the same mould as Barnes, he still ticks the boxes necessary.
Fast, direct and with good close control, he needs a move away from Tyneside, be that permanent or on loan, to regain his confidence and Rafael Benitez should have no qualms in sending him back to the division where they bought him from.
West Brom fans will be hoping Barnes remains but if he does go, Murphy can take on the mantle and make a success of his time at the Hawthorns.