Tottenham Hotspur are understood to have made an enquiry over the prospect of signing Newcastle United’s Allan Saint-Maximin earlier this summer in the hope of landing him for a knockdown price, according to The Athletic.
The report claims that Spurs did not make direct contact with the Magpies, but instead went through intermediaries, but parked their interest after learning that Newcastle’s valuation was in excess of £40million.
Newcastle are believed to be lining up a new deal for Saint-Maximin, to align his current contract with the revamped wage structure under the new ownership, however, they have warned him that he must prove to them that he is worthy of a pay rise.
Football.London revealed last month that Spurs’ director of football managing director of football Fabio Paratici is a big fan of the Frenchman, however, it appears that despite some initial groundwork, the north Londoners decided to look elsewhere.
Tottenham have been unusually active at this stage of the transfer window, having made six signings following the arrivals of Ivan Perisic, Yves Bissouma, Clement Lenglet (season-long loan), Richarlison, and Djed Spence.
Our View
Allan Saint-Maximin is an exciting player but he has a lot to prove this season. Consistency has been one of his greatest foes throughout his time with Newcastle United. The Frenchman has what it takes to be a top player but the key ingredient i.e, consistency is lacking in his game. Therefore, it was a blessing in disguise that Spurs were put off by the £40m+ price tag for him.
They have already signed Richarlison for £60 million (Sky Sports) and is a brilliant addition to Conte’s attack which already boasts of Harry Kane, Son Heung-Min, Lucas Moura, and Dejan Kulusevski.
