‘Depends on progress’: Saint-Maximin discusses Newcastle future and Mike Ashley

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Newcastle United star Allan Saint-Maximin has talked to Sport.fr about his future and ambitions at St James’ Park.

The Frenchman has been a fans’ favourite since he arrived at the club. Newcastle spent £16.5 million (BBC) to bring Saint-Maximin from Nice last summer and he has arguably become their best player.

The 23-year-old scored four goals and provided seven assists in all competitions in his debut campaign. That’s an impressive return considering his side scored just 38 times in the league all season.

His performances have caught the eye of rivals and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see someone make a move for him in the not-too-distant future. Any such move would be a big blow for the Magpies, who depend on his skills in attack.

Saint-Maximin was asked about his future at Newcastle and the Frenchman claimed he might have to look elsewhere if the Magpies don’t match his ambitions in the coming months.

He said: “The club has a lot of ambition and everyone followed the news around Newcastle regarding the change of ownership that never was.

“There’s a lot of big investors who are trying to buy the club and we also have an owner (Mike Ashley) who invests quite a lot of money to strengthen the team and help it continue its progress.

“As for me, all will depend on that progress. If the club evolves well and it’s in line with my desires, staying is a possibility. After that, if things don’t go that way, of course, the question of an exit will be asked.

“For now, we’re in a huge league with a lot of big teams so to play in Europe and the Europa League, that would be really good.”

Mike Ashley has spent good money during the past two years. The deals for Joelinton, Saint-Maximin, Jamal Lewis and Callum Wilson weren’t cheap by any means, but that hasn’t stopped Newcastle fans dreaming of a mega-bucks takeover.

Whoever’s in charge, signing better players would obviously help Newcastle to climb the table. That might be enough to convince Saint-Maximin to stay – even if a big offer comes his way.