Allan Saint-Maximin update as Eddie Howe responds to Newcastle United rumours

Eddie Howe says he wants Allan Saint-Maximin to stay at Newcastle United - as speculation continues to surround his future.

The Frenchman was back in black and white colours on Saturday afternoon when he scored in the Magpies’ 3-2 win at Gateshead during their opening pre-season friendly.

But there are question marks over whether or not the 26-year-old will still be at St James’ Park when the summer transfer window closes on September 1.

Saint-Maximin endured a frustrating campaign last season, starting just 12 Premier League games with his last competitive goal coming in August away to Wolves.

Amid speculation surrounding his future, Saint-Maximin posted on Instagram last week “people can keep talking when they know nothing. I just keep working.”

The player himself, however, has left fans regularly second-guessing over following a summer of cryptic messages.

What is clear, however, is Howe wants Saint-Maximin to stay.

“Definitely. I love Allan,” said the Magpies’ head coach. “I’ve said that many times. You saw his quality today, when he went to his best position as a left winger I thought he was excellent.

“He took his goal really well, he’s come back in a good place mentally. I’m very pleased with him.”

Speaking after the 1-1 draw at Chelsea on the final day of last season, Howe was asked about Saint-Maximin’s future to which he put the onus back on the winger.

“[His future] will be dictated by Maxi himself,” Howe said. “He has so much ability, and he’s such an important player for us when he’s at his very best, fitness-wise. He’s unique, there’s no one like him in the Premier League.”

Saint-Maximin, as per the Daily Telegraph, is understood to be attracting interest from Saudi Arabia and some clubs in Europe. In January, the former France youth international was linked with Serie A giants AC Milan.