{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":[],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
“Is this ‘Special Talent’ the Next Cole Palmer for Newcastle? Discover the Future Star!
Asking Newcastle to produce a player of Cole Palmer’s caliber is unrealistic, as he is truly unique. However, Newcastle does have impressive talent in Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, their Player of the Year for 2023/24.
Harvey Barnes, signed from Leicester City for £38 million in July 2023, could potentially evolve into a player similar to Palmer, given some improvements. His first season with Newcastle was challenging due to injuries, limiting him to just seven Premier League starts.
Barnes possesses a blend of directness, skill, and speed, ranking in the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe for goals scored per 90 minutes over the past year. FBref even identifies him as one of the players most comparable to Palmer.
While their playing styles are not identical, both exhibit a remarkable ability to cut inside and deliver precise strikes. Barnes has a knack for performing in crucial matches and has shown consistency over the last five seasons, which could benefit Newcastle moving forward.
Despite a frustrating year marred by injuries, Barnes’s natural goal-scoring instinct suggests that his best football could be ahead of him, especially under manager Eddie Howe. With Gordon and Isak not at their best early in the 2024/25 season, Barnes has stepped up, notably scoring a stunning goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers in September.
Barnes has the “X factor” and, although he has started only five league matches this season, he has made a strong case for a more prominent role. Last year’s difficulties may have weighed heavily on him, but he is regaining confidence and could become a key player for Howe’s side, reminiscent of Palmer.
While he may not reach the same heights as his fellow countryman, who is already seen as one of the best in the league, Barnes has the potential to be a significant player. Praised for his “special talent” by analyst Statman Dave, the £80k-per-week winger is a genuine goal-scorer and could rival Gordon as Newcastle’s top wide player. Though unlikely to challenge Palmer for the spotlight, he remains one of the league’s top scorers and, with proper management, could become a formidable force.
