Newcastle are now £8m away from agreeing to sell 26-year-old ‘top player’

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After all of the rumour and speculation, talk of Allan Saint-Maximin leaving Newcastle United finally ramped up on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old was not involved in the Magpies’ friendly win over Rangers, with Eddie Howe’s side winning 2-1 in Glasgow.

After the game, Howe heaped praise on the likes of Sandro Tonali, while he was also quizzed about the absence of ASM.

The Newcastle boss confirmed that Maxi was in talks about a move away, and stated that FFP was the only reason for his potential departure. Howe called the winger a ‘top player‘, and even stated that he does not want him to leave.

But it feels like a case of needs must, and now the Magpies are in negotiations with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli as the two sides look to agree a fee.

However, the PIF-owned club’s offer is currently less than what Newcastle, another club owned by PIF, are looking for.

Al Ahli offer £22million for Allan Saint-Maximin

According to Fabrizio Romano, Al Ahli’s official offer for Saint-Maximin is worth £22million. However, he adds that Newcastle want more.

It has been stated by the Daily Mail that the Magpies are looking to receive around £30million for ASM, which means the Saudi side are £8million away from getting their man.

While it is a shame that an exit appears to be inevitable, hopefully a deal can be agreed sooner rather than later. That will allow Newcastle to accelerate their move for Harvey Barnes before turning their attention to making more signings.

Al Ahli’s initial bid for Saint-Maximin is much lower than anticipated, as it had initially been claimed that Newcastle would look to get £40million for the mercurial talent. However, it looks a fee that high is now beyond us.

Regardless, Al Ahli are going to have to up their offer. While questions are going to be asked about the deal due to two PIF clubs being involved, £22million is simply far too cheap for a player of Saint-Maximin’s quality.