Newcastle United take on Rangers at Ibrox on Tuesday night, but will be without Allan Saint-Maximin.
The Magpies have travelled north of the border for their second friendly of the summer, as they take part in Allan McGregor’s Rangers testimonial. And while Eddie Howe has a strong squad available to him, Maxi look set to be conspicuous by his absence.
He was involved in the win over Gateshead on Saturday, and was one of Newcastle’s best players. He even scored in the 3-2 win.
But since then, rumours over a move away have gathered speed, and it now feels like an exit is on the horizon.
Allan Saint-Maximin to miss Newcastle’s friendly with Rangers
According to the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, Saint-Maximin is not expected to feature in Newcastle’s friendly with Rangers.
He states that the 26-year-old’s future will be decided in the next few days after the club were contacted by representatives from Saudi Pro League clubs. However, Hope does add that Saint-Maximin could still go with Newcastle to America if a deal is not reached.
Saudi Arabia looks like Saint-Maximin’s most likely destination, which will likely raise questions about the club’s ownership once again. This is despite other Premier League sides doing business with teams in Saudi Arabia.
The fact that he is going to miss the game against Rangers seems to suggest that a move is on the cards, and it could coincide with Harvey Barnes joining the Magpies.
It was previously reported that ASM could be sold to fund the arrival of Barnes, while it has been stated today that the Leicester winger is now edging closer to becoming a Newcastle United player. He is keen on the move and has already agreed personal terms.
It could be a case of one in, one out. And the one out will create heartache on Tyneside, with the majority of Toon fans keen to see Saint-Maximin remain at St James’ Park.
However, that no longer feels likely.
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