Allan Saint-Maximin has completed his anticipated move to the Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli from Newcastle United. The French forward joins the Saudi Pro League team in a deal believed to be in the region of £23m, linking up with former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez and ex-Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino in an impressive front line.
Al Ahli’s Star-Studded Lineup
The 26-year-old Saint-Maximin is the most recent addition to Al Ahli’s increasingly high-profile squad. The squad, which is managed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, which also owns Newcastle, has already recruited Premier League stars Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Edouard Mendy this summer, building a strong offensive line.
Saint-Maximin, who joined Newcastle from Nice in August 2019, played a significant role for the Magpies, scoring 13 goals and providing 21 assists in his 124 appearances for the club. His stellar performances last season contributed to Newcastle’s fourth-place finish in the Premier League, securing a Champions League spot.
Saint-Maximin’s Fond Farewell
Saint-Maximin expressed his strong affection for Newcastle and gratitude to its fans in an emotive social media message. Despite the difficulties, he always believed in the club and appreciated the victories they had. He added that leaving the club as it returns to its previous glory is his greatest accomplishment, and he stated that he will remain Newcastle’s “biggest supporter” in the future.
To replace the departing Saint-Maximin, Newcastle has signed Leicester City’s Harvey Barnes, who is expected to occupy the left wing position. Barnes, a Leicester City youth, academy graduate and FA Cup winner, set a career best with 13 goals last season.
Controversy Over Transfer and Financial Fair Play
The sale of Saint-Maximin to Al Ahli has sparked significant debate among Premier League clubs. There have been questions raised about whether the reported transfer cost was inflated to help Newcastle meet Financial Fair Play regulations.
Newcastle manager, Howe, has justified the move, claiming that it will satisfy the Premier League. Furthermore, Richard Masters, the Premier League’s chief executive, stated that the league’s rules are “robust” and intended to promote fair competition.
Dan Ashworth, the club’s sports director, has previously suggested that player sales are critical to meeting expenditure restrictions. This explains why, despite the loss of a major player, Newcastle has been active in the market, acquiring Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali from AC Milan for £55 million and Harvey Barnes from Leicester City for £38 million.
As the new season begins, both Newcastle and Al Ahli will be eager to prove the value of their respective transfer strategies. While Newcastle will look to continue their upward trend, Al Ahli’s high-profile signings promise to dominate the Saudi Pro League.
