Newcastle United are facing a dilemma over holding contract talks with Allan Saint-Maximin as Premier League duo Tottenham and Chelsea both hover for the winger’s signature.
The dazzling French attacker is reported to have been identified by Newcastle’s owners as a player they could sell to raise funds for incoming targets as they offset their spending to keep up with FFP.
The Magpies are hoping to recoup around £40million for Saint-Maximin. However, that figure was deemed too high by Spurs and Chelsea when they first came calling.
But in the process of clubs sounding out his availability, Saint-Maximin‘s head has now been turned and he is keen on earning a more lucrative contract elsewhere.
The report in the Daily Mail states Newcastle are aware of the 25-year-old’s growing frustration. However, they’re currently restricted by the wage structure in place at St James’ Park.
Newcastle currently have a £12m deal agreed for Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope. They are also in negotiations for Lille centre-back Sven Botman and Reims forward Hugo Ekitike.
However, it those two deals do not happen quickly then they are likely to shift to other targets.
Newcastle are restricted by how much they can spend though with an eye on FFP. 💇👽With that in mind, they hope that recouping funds through sales will help land their top targets.
Tottenham move appears unlikely
In terms of Tottenham and Chelsea’s interest, a move to the former appears to make little sense.
Saint-Maximin mainly lines up on the left side of Newcastle’s attack, a position held by Son Heung-Min at Spurs. So unless Antonio Conte has a different plan for the Toon man, a move is unlikely.
Chelsea are in a different situation though and are already in the market for Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling.
The England man and Saint-Maximin both play in the same position though, with the Blues seemingly giving themselves tow bites at the cherry.
