Why West Brom should definitely aim to sign Harvey Barnes on a permanent basis
Despite the losses against Wigan and Derby recently, West Bromwich Albion have made an impressive start under Darren Moore this season. The Baggies are definitely one of the early favourites to make it to the Premier League next season.
The Baggies have scored a whopping 33 goals in their 15 games so far and one who has proven to be the driving force so far is youngster Harvey Barnes. Since making the loan move to the Hawthorns from Leicester City this season, the 20-year-old has scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists in 15 league appearances.
He has played a pivotal role under Moore so far and has been involved in most of their goals, one way or another. Playing as a central attacking midfielder in the manager’s 3-4-1-2 formation, Barnes has been pulling the strings in the middle of the park.
The youngster has not only been their main source of supply but he has also been racking up the goals himself. According to the Independent, Leicester manager Claude Puel is interested in recalling the youngster from his loan spell after being impressed with his superb displays.
But at this point, the Baggies should aim to sign the midfielder on a permanent basis. Moore has done a splendid job at the Hawthorns so far and has handed Barnes the regular game time he needs. The manager has played a huge role in the development of the youngster this season.
Barnes has averaged 3.3 shots per game while also averaging a pass success rate of 77.6% in the Championship. He is a tenacious midfielder who is also willing to track back and support the backline. He is a pacy midfielder on the ball who often hands defenders a tough time with his superb close control. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
At the age of 20, Barnes has shown a rapid improvement in his displays. At Leicester, the youngster may have to settle for a place on the bench but at West Brom, he will be a regular starter under Darren Moore.
West Bromwich should definitely aim to sign the midfielder on a permanent basis when the season comes to an end. But first, Darren Moore must also ensure they get promoted at the end of the season.
Barnes has played a crucial role for the Baggies this season and there’s doubt his services will be required in the future.