Why Newcastle United should break the bank for Allan Saint-Maximin
According to a report from the Chronicle, Rafael Benitez has admitted that the club are working on securing transfers during the January transfer market.
Newcastle United moved up into 13th place in the Premier League table with a 2-1 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor on Monday. The Magpies have now won a third successive Premier League game that saw them pull further clear of the relegation zone.
The wins lately have slowly lifted the mood around St. James’ Park and eased some pressure off Rafael Benitez. Benitez will need a lot more of positive results to get Newcastle’s campaign back on track and going by the performances in the last three games, the signs are promising.
However, Newcastle desperately need new signings in January to spark a bit of life back into Benitez’s side, and a player with X-factor would simply be perfect. The Magpies have been predictable in the final third and although they have found out a way to churn out results lately in their favour, Benitez should pursue a player that can make a serious impact at the club.
In the 13 Premier League outings, Newcastle have scored just 11 goals, which is a pretty paltry return given the fact that the attacking players at Benitez’s disposal are capable of doing much more. But Benitez’s defensive tactics provides little freedom for the players to express themselves and as a result, the Magpies have had to fight tooth and nail to score goals this season.
Hence, it is important for Benitez to reinforce his attack in the mid-term transfer market to increase the production of goals. That said, he should consider making a move for OGC Nice star Allan Saint-Maximin.
Allan Saint-Maximin, 21, started his career at Saint-Etienne before moving to AS Monaco in 2015. After failing to break into Monaco’s team, OGC Nice plucked him away last season.
In his first season at Monaco, the 21-year-old scored five goals and added nine assists in 40 matches across all competitions. While one can say those numbers aren’t great, he has started this season well and already has three goals and two assists in 13 Ligue 1 games.
A left winger by trade, Allan Saint-Maximin can also play on the right, as a centre-forward or in the hole behind the striker. He is blessed with raw pace and exquisite dribbling skills — the two attributes that often help him take on and beat his man.
The France Under-21 international is a composed finisher in front of the goal but his unpredictability and direct pace will certainly freshen up Newcastle’s attack.
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A player with a mix of pace, power, skill and stamina, Saint-Maximin could light up St James’ Park and terrorize the Premier League defenders. The Frenchman is clearly a sublime talent and could make a devastating impact if Benitez gets a deal done and helps the youngster realize his full potential.