By Noel Whelan

27th Jan, 2023 | 1:21pm

Allan Saint-Maximin could force Newcastle United exit after contact made - 'he's not happy', says pundit

Noel Whelan has claimed Allan Saint-Maximin and Newcastle United are likely to part ways in the summer window.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 25-year-old won’t be “happy” with his current bit-part role at St James’ Park.

According to the Daily Mail (25 January), Newcastle will listen to offers for Saint-Maximin should they finalise a deal for Everton star Anthony Gordon.

The Frenchman has made 16 appearances for the Magpies this term – with his last Premier League start coming in August.

That is a stark contrast to his involvement last season – when he started in 31 of a possible 38 top-flight games.

Saint-Maximin has registered 13 goals and 19 assists in 109 Newcastle appearances.

Newcastle sit third in the Premier League and are serious contenders for Champions League qualification.

Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Eddie Howe has got a system, and he’s not the first choice.

“He was the top man and the big name two or three seasons ago, but other players have come in – and he’s no longer a standout.

“He’s been fantastic, and on his day, he can be a world-beater.

“I think he’ll be a Newcastle player until the end of the season.

“But they’ll look for another player in his position, and once they’ve done that – they’ll probably let him go.

“Newcastle are on a different path now. As much as you want to keep good squad players around, I don’t think he’ll be happy with that role.

“I don’t think Eddie Howe sees him as first-choice.”

In other news, pundit issues “unbelievable” Alexander Isak verdict as Newcastle United footage analysed.