According to 90min, Wolves are interested in signing Allan Saint-Maximin if he departs Newcastle United this summer.
Saint-Maximin has been a star performer for the Magpies this term, scoring five goals and providing three assists as his side have steered themselves away from the relegation zone.
However, despite having four years left on his current contract, he is said to be asking for a significant wage increase, and the club’s hierarchy are said to be reluctant to succumb to his demands despite the billions the new owners have at their disposal.
As per this report, Wolves are looking to capture the Frenchman as they aim to replace Adama Traore, who is currently on loan at Barcelona. But what impact could the arrival of Saint-Maximin have on the Old Gold? We take a look at the potential consequences.
Perfect Traore replacement
While Traore’s speed, power and dribbling ability made him a threat for Wolves, his lack of end product was often his downfall. That, perhaps, was the only thing he lacked, and while Saint-Maximin could improve on the Spaniard’s goal and assist contribution, he could be the perfect replacement for the winger.
The two players are comparable, and the £28.8m-valued Saint-Maximin could, in fact, be an improvement. He has averaged more dribbles and more key passes per game this campaign in the Premier League, and has also won more fouls than Traore. He appears to be more refined than the former Middlesbrough man, which would only be a boost to Bruno Lage as he looks to return Wolves to European football.
Wolves still have pulling power
Recently, there have been worries that Wolves are unable to hold on to their key players. The departure of Traore to Barcelona was already a blow, while the exit of Rui Patricio and the potential sale of Ruben Neves are further indications that bigger clubs will continue to swoop for the Molineux outfit’s biggest assets.
Capturing a star performer such as Saint-Maximin, though, would be a statement of intent from Wolves. Aston Villa, who seemingly have money to burn – only five sides spent more than the Villans during last summer’s transfer window – have also been linked with the 25-year-old winger, and with Steven Gerrard in the hotseat, they are an attractive proposition.
Would you like to sign Saint-Maximin?
Yes
No
Wolves must show the supporters they have the ambition to move forward, and the signing of Saint-Maximin could do just that.
TIF Verdict…
Newcastle’s new spending power means any member of their first-team squad could be out of the door at the end of the season – Saint-Maximin included.
However, few players are as exciting to watch as the former Nice man, and Toon boss Eddie Howe has stated his desire to keep the player at St. James’ Park. Wolves should keep an eye on Saint-Maximin’s situation as it develops, but any interest may not lead to anything concrete.