Saint-Maximin reveals conversations with "great player" he'd love to sign at St James' Park

Allan Saint-Maximin has encouraged Newcastle United to make a move for Marcus Thuram, revealing conversations with the Frenchman about a potential switch to St James' Park.

The Athletic report that the Borussia Monchengladbach star has been discussed in recruitment meetings ahead of the January transfer window, with the club monitoring his situation as he approaches the final six months of his contract in Germany.

Saint-Maximin describes the versatile forward as a "great player" and "incredible guy", hoping the club "have a chance" to sign him in the new year following a few eye-catching cameos at the World Cup.

The pair are thought to be close friends, having represented the same French youth sides earlier in their career and playing together for the Under-20s on multiple occasions back in 2016/17.

Asked about his relationship with Thuram and recent talk of our interest, ASM had this to say:

“Yeah, I will be honest, I have chatted with him.

"He is a great player and I hope we have a chance to take him here.

"I was so happy for him [during the World Cup]. For me, he’s a great player.

"I’ve known this guy a long time. I’ve been playing football with him when I was very young.

"I know all his family. He has great parents. He’s an incredible guy.”