Newcastle target Saint-Maximin could be Magpies’ next Ben Arfa

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United are reportedly closing in on Nice winger Allan Saint-Maximin.

The Chronicle cite reports in France that claim the Magpies are nearing an €18 million/£16.4 million move plus some add-ons for the 22-year-old, who is expected to sign a six-year deal.

Versatile Saint-Maximin was a mainstay in the Nice first-team last season, making 36 appearances in all competitions.

His good season initially alerted AC Milan, but the player appears to be Premier League-bound as the transfer window nears its end.

Should Newcastle successfully sign Saint-Maximin before the deadline, then the club could well have another Hatem Ben Arfa on their hands.

TBR’s view

Ben Arfa was known for being a flair player and Newcastle supporters loved the way he performed during his time at St. James’ Park.

The same can be said for Saint-Maximin. The speedy winger loves a trick and adopts a similarly flamboyant style to that of the maverick Ben Arfa, who now plies his trade with Rennes.

Saint-Maximin is reminiscent of his former Nice teammate, but arguably his end product is still a work in progress – making his potential signing a gamble.

His uninspiring tally of six goals was the best of his career to date, and he also only made three assists last term.

If he can improve his consistency in the final third -and his age suggests he easily can – then Newcastle could have a real player on their hands.