Allan Saint-Maximin is not among the travelling Newcastle squad for the friendly clash against Rangers as rumours link the Frenchman with a transfer exit.
The tricky winger, 26, who joined the Magpies in a £16million move from Nice in August 2019, is reportedly a transfer target for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.
The PA news agency understands that Saint-Maximin will not be involved at Ibrox for the Allan McGregor testimonial fixture while his future at Newcastle is clarified.
Saint-Maximin had earlier this summer posted a lengthy social media update branding his current situation as a turning point in his career.
A section of the Instagram post read: "I am now entering a turning point in my career and I will give everything until the end to achieve my dreams.
"It’s often said that human beings forget quickly, but me I won’t be able to forget everyone that love me for who I am and believe in me in difficult moments, it’s in these hard situations that we see the real supporters. Thanks to everyone for the support, whatever happens, I will always give everything when I have the chance to step onto the pitch."
It's further understood that Newcastle remain in negotiations with Leicester over a transfer deal for Harvey Barnes but have been hampered by Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Head coach Eddie Howe has insisted he does not want to lose any of his senior players and name-checked Saint-Maximin in his post-match comments after Saturday’s pre-season friendly at Gateshead amid ongoing speculation.
However, the crowd favourite is one of the few players inherited by Howe who would command a sizeable fee and with frustration mounting at the lack of tangible progress since the £53million capture of AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali earlier this month, the 45-year-old is having to brace himself.
Despite the wealth of their owners and the new revenue stream they have opened up by qualifying for next season’s Champions League, the Magpies are having to be creative to avoid breaching financial rules with the their wage bill also a concern.
