Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Blow for Newcastle United as Tottenham line up summer move for fan-favourite attacker

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

Newcastle United could potentially lose Allan Saint-Maximin this summer, with Tottenham Hotspur eyeing up a potential move for the Frenchman, according to reports.

The 25-year-old put in an admirable performance for the 10-man Magpies against Liverpool on Saturday, despite losing the game 2-0 at St. James’ Park.

Spurs and Newcastle look set for an enthralling battle for the top four this season, so whether or not Eddie Howe’s team can qualify for the Champions League could have an impact on Saint-Maximin’s future.

Indeed, Tottenham overtook Newcastle in the Premier League table after beating West Ham United on Sunday, but the Magpies still have a game in hand on their rivals.

With that in mind, Saint-Maximin looks set to play an important role for the Tynesiders this season, despite being used somewhat sporadically by Howe.

So far, the French winger has made just six starts in the Premier League this term, scoring only one goal.

It seems he has fallen behind the likes of Miguel Almiron and Joelinton in the pecking order, while the arrival of Anthony Gordon from Everton has also given him more competition to contend with.

With that in mind, he may be open to leaving St. James’ Park this summer, with Tottenham closely monitoring Saint-Maximin’s current situation, according to The Sunday People, via The Boot Room.

According to TransfermarktNewcastle value Saint-Maximin at €40m (approx. £35.5m), so an offer in that region may be required for Spurs to get a deal done.

 Tottenham are in need of attacking recruits

Saint-Maximin is a very popular figure among Toon fans, so it would be a controversial decision to sell him, especially to one of their main Premier League rivals, Tottenham.

Saying that, if he is only going to start a handful of games per season for the Magpies, if Spurs come in with a good offer, they may be forced to let him go.

Antonio Conte has brought in several attacking players this season, including Richarlison, Ivan Perisic and Arnaut Danjuma (loan).

But, he has still openly admitted in the past that his squad isn’t strong enough to compete for a league title, so he will be looking to bolster his front line next season.

That is, if Conte remains in North London, with his contract set to run out this summer. He may yet pen a new deal, but Mauricio Pochettino has already been lined up by Daniel Levy as his potential replacement.

But even if there is a managerial change – the problem remains the same. Tottenham have scored considerably less goals than the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City this season, so they need to add more creative players to their ranks, especially with Harry Kane being linked with a summer departure.

Saint-Maximin is pacey, direct, skilful and creates plenty of chances on his day and does have the confidence to shoot from pretty much anywhere.

His problem, though, is his consistency. One day he can look incredible, but on another, he can really wind you up. With that in mind, Spurs will have to weigh up the pros and cons of bringing him in, if the Magpies do allow him to leave.

READ MORE: Tottenham and Arsenal ramp up moves for outstanding French striker who could replace Harry Kane next season