Newcastle: £26m star now expected to leave St James' Park | OneFootball

Newcastle United forward Allan Saint-Maximin is unlikely to still be at the club when the 2022/23 season gets underway, according to former Premier League midfielder Carlton Palmer.

Saint-Maximin has caused a stir with some of his recent comments in the press, and Palmer thinks this could edge him nearer to the exit door at St James’ Park.

What controversial comments has Saint-Maximin made?

The £26m-rated winger recently spoke to French Magazine So Foot, and delivered some eye-catching lines during the interview.

Saint-Maximin claimed that he has no reason to envy Liverpool’s Sadio Mane, who looks to be in contention to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, but it was his remarks about his own teammates that really stood out.

He said: “The day I have a player capable of finishing actions, I will make seasons with 10-15 assists, and I will change dimensions in people’s heads.”

The 25-year-old has since posted on Twitter, stating that he did not intend to criticise his teammates, but the damage may have already been done.

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What has Palmer said about Saint-Maximin?

Palmer believes Saint-Maximin has not been able to produce the goods on a consistent basis for Newcastle, and he has tipped the Frenchman to be moved on this summer after his controversial comments.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT about Saint-Maximin’s interview, Palmer said: “He may well be telling the truth, but I can’t see him being at Newcastle next season and I can’t see him being in the side next season.

“Some people have an over-inflated opinion of their ability and where they are. He is a talent, but there’s no consistency.”

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Is it time for Newcastle to sell Saint-Maximin?

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has revealed that Saint-Maximin explained to him that his words were taken out of context, and he has accepted the forward’s apology.

Therefore, his comments may not be the major issue moving forward.

What could be a problem is the lack of consistency on the pitch that Palmer referred to. Saint-Maximin started the season in fine form, registering five goals and three assists in his opening 20 league appearances.

He has gone off the boil since, though, as he has managed just a single assist in his last 13 top-flight matches.

Indeed, his overall record at Newcastle is a relatively mediocre one as he has scored 12 goals and delivered 15 assists in 91 games. For a player of his ability, that is a little underwhelming.

When he is in full flow, there aren’t many more exciting players to watch in the Premier League – even this season he has averaged 4.4 dribbles per game in the Premier League as per Whoscored, the highest in the division. He cannot seem to play at his highest level week in, week out, though.

Mail Online that Newcastle would be willing to sell him, and if they do receive a suitable offer this summer, it could be wise for them to cash in and bring in a replacement with a little more consistency to their game.