The Saudi Pro League are snapping up some top players from the Premier League, and Newcastle United could be the next club to sell someone to the Middle East.
Allan Saint-Maximin is closing in on a move to Al Ahli after Eddie Howe confirmed that the winger was in talks regarding a move away.
He has now said his goodbyes to his Toon teammates and is ready to sign for the Saudi side. It looks like Al Ahli and Newcastle just need to agree a fee, with the Magpies looking for around £30million.
While it is sad to see him go, a move away makes sense for Maxi. Newcastle need to ease their FFP concerns, and he is our most saleable asset – even if he is a fan favourite at St James’ Park.
A transfer to Al Ahli will allow him to play alongside Roberto Firmino and Edouard Mendy, while he could also be joined by another elite Premier League star.
Al Ahli want Riyad Mahrez and Allan Saint-Maximin
According to the Daily Mail, Al Ahli are still looking to sign Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City.
Their interest in the Algerian has coincided with their approach for Saint-Maximin, but it is not a case of one or the other. Instead, they wanted to play the exciting wingers alongside each other.
Al Ahli have made a new offer for Mahrez, with the Saudi club prepared to pay £27million for the Premier League champion.
If they can agree a deal for Mahrez and ASM, it would mean they have a terrifying front three. Throw Firmino into the mix and most Premier League clubs wouldn’t turn their noses up at that trifecta.
Interestingly, Mahrez is someone who Newcastle were told to make a move for earlier this year. That was according to Stan Collymore, who said that the Magpies should ‘go all out’ to sign the 32-year-old from Man City.
At the time, a move to St James’ Park for the £60million man would have allowed him to play alongside Saint-Maximin. That could now become a reality, but it is going to happen in Saudi Arabia rather than Newcastle.
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