Reports suggest Newcastle United’s Allan Saint-Maximin is intrigued at a move away from the club, amid interest from Chelsea.
According to the Daily Mail, Eddie Howe’s side may have to let the Frenchman go as they continue their sensational rebuild.
Saint-Maximin has been the great entertainer in the North-East since he arrived from Nice in 2019, and Chelsea are said to be keeping tabs on him this summer.
Whilst not being the greatest provider in terms of goals and assists, the 25-year-old is essential to Newcastle’s attacks, combining well with Callum Wilson whenever the Englishman has been fit.
Opposition managers are just some of those to comment on his ability, with Everton manager Frank Lampard describing him as ‘unplayable’ after the Chelsea legend saw his side lose 3-1 in a massive fixture back in February.
Earlier this season, the winger stated his desire to continue to play against elite calibre opposition. While the Magpies are certainly on their way to the big time after their recent takeover, the opportunity to jump straight to a Champions League side could interest the star.
According to the Daily Mail, interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham have turned Saint-Maximin’s head towards a move away.
However, the report also suggests the £40m fee the club are demanding has currently put the two London sides off a deal, which means for any transfer to happen Newcastle may have to lower their asking price.
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While Saint-Maximin’s quality is undoubted, his lack of end product should be a real concern for Chelsea if they are looking to sign him.
With links to Raphinha and Raheem Sterling, the club would be blessed with proven Premier League calibre goalscorers, with the Brazilian’s untapped potential in a better team a really exciting prospect.
With reports claiming Todd Boehly is taking a hands on approach to transfers from now, the American should be looking to complete other deals for attackers instead of negotiate over the Frenchman.