Keith Downie denies Toon rumour & reveals what Saint-Maximin sale could mean for signings

According to Sky Sports' Keith Downie, Newcastle are NOT in talks with Monaco's Axel Disasi and that Saint-Maximin’s proposed move to Saudi Arabia will accelerate our bid to sign Harvey Barnes.

There had been rumours that Disasi was one of our main targets to either replace of play backup to Fabian Schar, but Downie has claimed that this rumour is largely agent-driven. 

So, despite claims we've 'verbally agreed' personal terms and been in discussions with Monaco, it seems talk of the Frenchman arriving has been drummed up by his representatives.

As for Saint-Maximin, Downie reports that he and Barnes are valued at around £40m, believing the sale of the 26-year-old will very much aid our pursuit of Leicester’s star winger; who has been left out of their last two pre-season friendlies.

ASM's failure to travel to Glasgow and those post-match comments from Eddie Howe were telling, suggesting a move to the Saudi Pro League is almost done if Al-Ahli can agree a fee.