Newcastle United 'fan favourite' set for fresh career twist after £20m PSR busting deal

According to reports in Turkey, the Frenchman is nearing a switch away from the Saudi Pro League, where he plays for Al Ahli.

Fan favourite Saint-Maximin was the first sacrifice made by Newcastle United to satisfy their PSR calculations in the summer of 2023. Popular in all four corners of St James’ Park, fans had hoped Eddie Howe & Co would retain the player for last season’s tilt at the Champions League.

However, as recent movement suggests, Newcastle’s PSR predicament meant in order for the likes of Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes to arrive last summer, money had to be raised - and it was ASM who left in a deal worth around £20million.

With his silky skills, elusive dribbling and showman nature, it’s fair to say Saint-Maximin went off like a firework in the SPL. But then things faded slightly, although his 30 appearances, four goals and nine assists reflects favourably on his time in the gulf.

And while Saudi riches may appeal, it looks as though the 27-year-old is off to pastures new - and a whole different challenge, in what could rank as a career masterstroke.

Jose Mourinho, according to Fotomac, is keen to make ASM one of his first Fenerbahce signings. From the Walkergate Mourinho - you all know who I’m talking about - to the Special One himself in three years would be quite some turnaround for Saint-Maximin’s career.

Saint-Maximin made, in total, 111 appearances for the Magpies in the Premier League, returning 12 goals.