Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has confirmed that Allan Saint-Maximin looks likely to leave the club – and is in talks with another club. The French winger did not make the trip to Ibrox for the 2-1 win over Rangers and has been heavily linked with a Saudi Pro League side. Saint-Maximin is not scheduled to fly to America for the US tour.
Eddie Howe said: “Allan is in discussions regarding a move to another club. Nothing is confirmed, nothing is done. But that’s why he wasn’t here today. With Financial Fair Play you have to trade, for us we were stuck in a position where we could not trade players the other way. That’s how FFP works. We understand that. Maxi is a top player and we definitely don’t want to lose him we want to strengthen the group. “Sometimes these things happen and we have to accept that. It’s early to speak of Maxi in the past tense. Certainly our respect for him is the same as the supporters, so if we do lose him it will be a difficult moment for us.”
When asked if he would go to America,
Eddie Howe said: “There are no plans for him to join us tomorrow but we will wait and see. “There’s a time where he could end up with us again. If that is the case we’d love to welcome him back.”
Saint-Maximin was left at home along with Joelionton, who is awaiting VISA clearance before jetting to the United States.