Eddie Howe has already told Chelsea and Tottenham why they won’t be signing Allan Saint-Maximim

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has already rubbished claims linking Allan Saint-Maximim to an exit this summer amid fresh transfer rumours to Chelsea and Spurs.

Newcastle’s No. 10 racked up a total of 2804 minutes last season for the Magpies, helping attain a total of 10 goal contributions in the Premier League last season. He did have his injury woes in the 2021/22 campaign but was still able to play a significant part in Howe’s side. After a dismal start to the last campaign under Steve Bruce, the Saudi-led takeover led to much change within the club, which saw an upturn in results in the second half which resulted in an impressive 11th placed finish for the Geordies under the former AFC Bournemouth manager.

Now, in a position of power under Amanda Staveley and co on the Newcastle board, they are expected to be one of the busiest clubs in this summer’s transfer window, with the likes of Hugo Ekitike and Nathan Are two priority targets this summer. However, one of the key figures of their rebuild may be looking to jump ship already in the form of 25-year-old Saint-Maximim. This is according to various outlets, including the Daily Mail, who have referenced Chelsea and Tottenham as two potential destinations for the forward.

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It Is understood that his head may have been turned due to the Magpies’ apparent unwillingness to offer him the higher wages that he is demanding. His contract currently runs until 2026 meaning if he were to be sold, Newcastle could quote interested clubs a £40million transfer fee.

Chelsea deem this too high but they and Spurs can potentially hold out for the ‘frustrated’ player in question to potentially hand in a transfer request if his wage demands aren’t satisfied in the near future. In spite of this dispute though, current manager Howe has already rubbished rumours that his star man could abandon his project anytime soon.

“I’ve got a great relationship with Maxi. I’ve really enjoyed working with him and we need him at his very best levels. He could potentially be the difference,” he said back in April via TalkSport. “He’s an incredible talent and of course he has a long-term future at the club.”

Asked at the time if he and Saint-Maximin have a good relationship, Howe added: “Absolutely, yes. Don’t always believe what you read in the papers. I’ve got a great relationship with Maxi, I’ve really enjoyed working with him.”

That could see the aforementioned London clubs – who are also battling it out currently for the likes of Richarlison and Raphinha this summer – frustrated in their efforts to land Saint-Maximim. Regardless, both will be keeping a close eye on this situation and how it unfolds from here.

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