Everton check on deal to sign Allan Saint-Maximin as FFP development emerges at Newcastle United
Everton are keeping tabs on the situation of Allan Saint-Maximin at Newcastle United, according to 90min.com.
The report says the flying French winger is a target for clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
However, the Toffees and Crystal Palace are said to be keeping their eye on Saint-Maximin, who was once hailed as “phenomenal” by Magpies great Shay Given.
Saint-Maximin, the report says, still has three years on his deal but fell out of favour under Eddie Howe last season as Newcastle secured a top-four finish and Champions League football.
Newcastle have added Sandro Tonali to their squad as they look to improve their first team ready for European football, but may be tempted to cash-in in order to stay within Financial Fair Play limits.
A difference maker
Allan Saint-Maximin is one of those footballers who can excite and frustrate in equal measure, capable of the absolutely sublime but also capable of the absolutely ridiculous.
There are doubts as to whether the 26-year-old fits the typical mould of a Sean Dyche player, would he have the work rate for example? Dyche does like his wingers to put in a shift defensively as well as going forward.
However, what is for sure is Everton need some star quality, especially in forward options, and boy would Saint-Maximin offer that to the Toffees.
On his day, Saint-Maximin is an absolute difference maker, and he should help Everton in the final third, where they were so often left wanting in a Premier League campaign that nearly ended in relegation.
Everton’s own financial concerns may make this one a none-starter but if there is a chance a deal can be struck then it is something the Toffees should seriously consider.
In other Everton news, AC Milan are ready to loan Charles De Ketelaere amid Toffees interest.