Fresh transfer claim made over Newcastle United’s £16m star after Eddie Howe admission

Allan Saint-Maximin reportedly faces an uncertain future at St James’ Park despite heavy involvement this season.

The Frenchman has made 20 Premier League appearances so far this term, although only 11 of those have been starts. Saint-Maximin faces a tough job to nail down a starting spot under Eddie Howe, with Joelinton and Jacob Murphy in fine form, while Miguel Almiron has enjoyed a superb season so far.

Meanwhile, Saint-Maximin’s job has been made that much more difficult by his second hamstring injury of the season, one that has kept him out of the last three Premier League games.

Three will become four this week, too, with Howe confirming: “I think Everton will be too early for Maxi.” Speaking about Murphy’s form, he added: “I don’t think Jacob’s done a lot wrong since he’s come into the team – I think he’s done a lot right. It’s then very difficult to justify leaving him out, as well as Miggy has done this season for us. It’s a tough call, but they’re the decisions I want.”

Meanwhile, Saint-Maximin is being linked with a move away from St James’ Park, with Football Insider claiming the 26-year-old will want to leave this summer if he does not receive assurances over regular football next season.

AC Milan are said to be interested in the winger, while other European clubs are also said to be eyeing a possible deal. The Frenchman remains under contract until 2026 as things stand, but Newcastle could yet strengthen this summer, and if he does want to leave, he is one of the players who could help even the balance sheet, likely to command a fee worth £25million or more, given he arrived for around £16million.

It will be interesting to see what conclusion is reached this summer, especially if clubs as big as AC Milan really are interested.