Tyne to cash in on Maxi?

ALLAN SAINT-MAXIMIN tops all the Newcastle attacking stats.

Since Eddie Howe arrived as boss he’s got three goals, has the most shots on and off target, key passes, dribbles and fouls won, according to top data analysts WyeAyeScout.

He’s undoubtedly the club’s most productive creative force, in a relegation-threatened team, who failed to win until December and who struggle to score goals.

So is the French winger the sort of superstar who Newcastle and Howe build their team and recruitment around in the summer?

Or is he the one guy who can raise cash and balance the spending books, if a big offer comes in?

It appears, on the face of it, a curious debate. But it is one that’s raging on Tyneside.

Howe says he’s going nowhere and is the long-term asset who would fare even better in a good team, which Newcastle hope to be next season.

Others argue, with some merit, he is not a team player. A show pony whose unpredictable nature can be breathtaking on his rare good days, but infuriating for strikers wondering when, or if, he’s going to pass.

I believe Saint-Maximin (above with Howe) is far from untouchable. There are circumstances in which he could be sold.

First, if the money was right – £40million-plus, with Aston Villa interested.

Secondly, if there was a creative, athletic, quick replacement lined up, who was more of a team player and fitted Howe’s tactical structure.

And maybe Maxi, still only 25, is open to a move for a bigger contract and because he doesn’t feel Howe’s plan gives him the attacking freedom that suits his maverick ability.

Newcastle have been poor sellers for a decade and getting a good price for an asset at peak value is part of the game.

A revamp is needed this summer, and there’s a question mark over most of the squad – especially up front.