Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin’s potential availability had been checked out by all three of Wolves, Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur this summer before he was offered a new six-year deal.
Saint-Maximin had provided a potential hint that his long-term future could be away from St James’ Park when he suggested he may need to move to get more international recognition. However, that speculation was ended by him signing a new six-year contract with the Magpies this week.
Growing interest leads to major Newcastle decision
The 23-year-old has enjoyed an excellent start to the campaign for the Magpies so far this term, grabbing a goal and assist in a stunning display against Burnley. The Frenchman’s form has meant that Newcastle were aware of growing interest in him, as per The Athletic.
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It has now emerged that all of Crystal Palace, Wolves and Tottenham had made checks on the 23-year-old. PSG were also one of several clubs including some German, Spanish and Italian outfits to have made partial enquires into his availability, say The Athletic.
Newcastle then decided to speed up negotiations over a new deal for Saint-Maximin, which had been ongoing over the last several months. That eventually resulted in the 23-year-old committing his future to the club and becoming one of their highest earners.
Saint-Maximin deal shows Magpies’ ambition
In the past Newcastle might have been tempted to enter into negotiations with a potential suitor for a player of Saint-Maximin’s market value. However, this summer it appears the Magpies were wanting to show more ambition in the market. After securing both Callum Wilson and Jamal Lewis, keeping the 23 year-old around ensures they can fight for more than just Premier League safety this season.
Steve Bruce has described Saint-Maximin as being ‘worth his weight in gold’ and he certainly is that to Newcastle. Keeping hold of a player with the ability to excite, evidenced by his match average of 4.7 successful dribbles last term (via Sofascore), is a massive coup for the Magpies and bodes well for the future.
Geordies, will Saint-Maximin stay at Newcastle for the length of his new deal? Let us know your thoughts below!
