Newcastle United

Newcastle United

Premier League • England

Second source confirms it’s game over for Newcastle ace who feels threatened by big-money signing

Newcastle stars Allan Saint-Maximin, Joelinton, Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson

A TEAMtalk exclusive has been backed up by a second source who have shed further light on why Newcastle are looking to cash in on Allan Saint-Maximin this summer.

Saint-Maximin was regularly one of the few bright sparks from an attacking sense under former manager Steve Bruce. The mercurial Frenchman is virtually unplayable on his day, though those instances are becoming few and far between under the new regime.

Indeed, the 26-year-old is no longer a guaranteed starter for Eddie Howe. Miguel Almiron is favoured on the right flank, while Joelinton, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon can all play on the left side.

TEAMtalk recently learned Saint-Maximin’s camp have called upon the Magpies to reward the winger with a new deal. However, Newcastle have not been receptive to his plea for a pay-rise and additional years on his existing deal.

As such, we understand Newcastle will not stand in his way and will actively listen to offers if any arrive.

Now, a fresh update from talkSPORT has backed up our claims, with the outlet declaring Newcastle are ‘ready to cash in’.

Due to Financial Fair Play constraints, Newcastle have set aside a modest £20m-£25m for the summer window. Qualification for the Champions League will loosen the purse strings, though that’s a bridge that’s still to be crossed.

As such, Eddie Howe must boost his transfer budget through player sales and Saint-Maximin is on the chopping block as a result. The report adds they expect to recoup a ‘decent fee’ if an exit does materialise.

talkSPORT shed further light on the reasoning behind what would unquestionably be a surprise split. They state the January addition of Anthony Gordon has left Saint-Maximin ‘questioning his role’.

Gordon – a £45m (including add-ons) signing from Everton – has been a bit-part player for Howe thus far. However, £45m signings aren’t made to warm the bench and Gordon’s role in the team is likely to increase next season.

That’ll place another obstacle between Saint-Maximin and regular gametime. That, combined with no new contract being on the horizon could result in the Frenchman leaving St. James’ Park this summer.

SOURCES: Newcastle make decision on re-signing former striker as Isak, Wilson learn their fate