Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Harvey Barnes. (Getty)
Aston Villa are preparing for another huge season after securing Champions League football for the second time in three years under Unai Emery.
Villa sealed qualification both through a top-four Premier League finish and by lifting the Europa League trophy, a competition Emery has made his own throughout his managerial career.
With a packed fixture schedule now awaiting next season, strengthening the squad has become a major priority for the club this summer as they look to compete domestically and in Europe.
And it appears a familiar Premier League name has emerged as a serious target.
Villa Shortlist Harvey Barnes
Harvey Barnes has reportedly been added to Aston Villa’s transfer shortlist as the club look to inject more pace and attacking threat into Emery’s side ahead of next season.
The Newcastle winger enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign, scoring 16 goals across all competitions, including six in the Champions League, while continuing to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous wide forwards.
According to the Daily Mail, Villa are believed to value Barnes’ versatility and direct style, with the England international capable of operating on either flank while also offering a major counter-attacking threat.
Any potential deal, however, would not come cheaply. Newcastle signed Barnes from Leicester City for around £38 million and would likely demand a sizeable fee to consider a sale, particularly with uncertainty already surrounding the future of Anthony Gordon.
Still, the prospect of regular Champions League football under Emery could appeal to Barnes, while a move to Villa Park would also bring him closer to family in the Midlands.
For Villa, it would represent another statement of intent ahead of a season where squad depth and proven Premier League quality could prove vital if they are to compete on multiple fronts once again.
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