Newcastle United are reportedly exploring a bold move to land Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa—and they could be willing to send Harvey Barnes the other way as part of the deal.
That is according to Mail Sport, who claim the Magpies are actively considering a swap deal involving Barnes in order to strengthen their midfield ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Eddie Howe remains a firm admirer of Ramsey’s profile, and with financial restrictions looming across the Premier League, Newcastle may be able to take advantage of Villa’s situation.
Eddie Howe ready to swap this Newcastle star to sign Premier League superstar
Despite being one of Villa’s most promising homegrown players, Jacob Ramsey has found minutes hard to come by under Unai Emery this season. The emergence of Morgan Rogers and the form of Marco Asensio have seen Ramsey fall down the pecking order, raising speculation around his future.
Mail Sport suggest Villa could be open to negotiations, particularly if a direct replacement is offered—and that is where Harvey Barnes comes in.
Newcastle signed Harvey Barnes from Leicester last summer with high expectations, but injuries and the form of Anthony Gordon have limited his role to just 14 league appearances. Although Barnes has contributed in bursts, he has not secured a regular starting place.
A move to Villa Park could reignite his career, while providing Emery with an experienced and direct winger capable of slotting into their high-tempo system.
The Magpies are eager to add midfield depth and quality to a squad that has at times lacked composure and creativity in central areas. With Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock inconsistent and Bruno Guimarães constantly linked with a move abroad, Ramsey represents a forward-thinking signing who could become a long-term pillar in Eddie Howe’s midfield.
Still only 23, the Villa academy graduate offers a mix of athleticism, drive, and technical skill—traits that Newcastle are actively seeking as they look to return to the Champions League.
The deal would also allow Newcastle to address squad balance without overspending, a key consideration as they navigate Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Newcastle transfer news: Dominic Calvert-Lewin also on the radar
In addition to Ramsey, Newcastle are continuing to explore attacking reinforcements. Mail Sport report the Magpies also remain interested in Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, with Howe keen on adding physicality and a reliable focal point up top.
But the potential swap involving Barnes and Ramsey could be one of the most intriguing moves of the window—a chance for both players to revive their careers, and for Newcastle to land a midfielder who fits their long-term project.