Transfer insider Graeme Bailey couldn't rule out Allan Saint-Maximin leaving Newcastle United this month.

The Lowdown: Selling would be a huge call

After what had started off as a very bright and potentially exciting season for Saint-Maximin under Eddie Howe - managing to register three goal involvements in his opening four games - the Frenchman was struck down by injury.

Saint-Maximin has not started a game in the league for Newcastle since August as he scored a stunning equaliser against Wolves, and has seen his game time restricted to brief cameo appearances.

Therefore, the reports of him being a target for other clubs won't be a surprise, with the likes of AC Milan and Nottingham Forest said to be keen on signing the tricky French winger as deadline day looms.

The Latest: Saint-Maximin's future up in the air

With Jonjo Shelvey also seemingly out the door at St James' Park, it would be huge if Newcastle sold Saint-Maximin so close to deadline day given how hard it would be to find a replacement, but while speaking on the Loaded Mag YouTube channel, Bailey couldn't rule out an exit.

He said: "If I was any fan, I wouldn't be buying a Saint-Maximin Newcastle shirt in the next few days - let's just say that. It's not a guarantee he finishes the season with you."

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The Verdict: Howe must keep Saint-Maximin

While Saint-Maximin certainly isn't a regular starter anymore on Tyneside, to have someone of his quality able to come off the bench in tight games could be invaluable in their hunt for the top four and some silverware.

The winger also still has a long-term contract at Newcastle which runs until the summer of 2026, so the Magpies would likely command a hefty fee for someone of his ability and age profile, but to sell right now would be crazy.

Saint-Maximin was so often the man that carried Newcastle through their dark years with Steve Bruce, finishing near the top of the goal-creating actions table and also chipping in constantly with a decent number of goals and assists, but as things stand, the Puma-sponsored star finds himself 'out of favour', which was highlighted by former Toon ace Kieron Dyer live on Sky Sports.