It looks like Allan Saint-Maximin’s future belongs at Newcastle United.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who now report that the Frenchman is set to stay at St James’ Park.
The update comes from reporter Craig Hope, whose words contradict what his colleague wrote last month.
Simon Jones had claimed that ASM was ‘expected‘ to leave the club, with the Magpies keen to cash in for £50million. Those rumours caused a stir among Toon fans, while Eddie Howe said ‘don’t always believe what you read in the papers‘.
But it looks like those reports are wrong, with the more reliable Craig Hope stating that Saint-Maximin is staying.
The report adds that the club feel he could benefit from another year of coaching from Howe. Meanwhile, the manager was reluctant to let the winger go.
Newcastle right to keep Saint-Maximin
Selling Saint-Maximin would have been a mistake, even if it may have boosted the club’s transfer budget. But he’s staying for now, and will be keen to receive a new contract to reflect the increased wages the Newcastle owners are offering out.
The 25-year-old had an inconsistent season, ending the campaign with five goals and five assists. Interestingly, that’s his best tally since joining the club.
He’s an immensely talented player who can surely only get better under Howe. The fans adore him, and he’s the type of footballer you’d pay to see.
Saint-Maximin can win games on his own, and will continue to be an important player for Newcastle United.
Miguel Almiron’s future is likely away from St James’ Park
While Saint-Maximin is staying, the same can’t be said for Miguel Almiron.
The same report claims that the Paraguayan is likely to leave St James’ Park. Miggy was previously mentioned as a player who could be sold this summer, but then he had a resurgence under Howe.
Almiron has had a decent end to the season, and has been nominated for Premier League Goal of the Season for his strike against Crystal Palace.
There will always be questions about the 28-year-old’s end product, but he has certainly improved in recent months. And his work rate remains unmatched.
He feels like a player who would be a good squad option going into next time, but perhaps the club feel differently.
These are the kind of difficult decision that the Newcastle hierarchy are going to have to make this summer.