Everton given boost in chase of £32m target as PL rivals close in on Leicester City attacker

Everton have been looking to bolster their attack this summer and Sean Dyche wants to add pace to the attack. Reinforcing the flanks also remains high on the priority list and Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin is certainly a player that Everton like. The Toffees might have just seen their chances increase of landing Sanit-Maximin this summer.

Everton sold Anthony Gordon to Newcastle in January and released Andros Townsend at the end of the season. The Toffees have only three wingers in the squad – Alex Iwobi, Demarai Gray and Dwight McNeil. The future of Gray is in doubt as the Jamaican winger could be sold amid interest from Fulham and Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. EFC cannot go into the 2023-24 season with just two wide options.

The Toffees had been linked to Newcastle’s Saint-Maximin as Everton were reportedly monitoring the French winger. Saint-Maximin could leave St James’ Park this summer after falling down the pecking order over the course of last season. The 26 year old started just 12 Premier League games last summer as compared to 31 starts in the 2021-22 season.

Everton handed a transfer boost in chase of Allan Saint-Maximin

His deal at St James’ Park is valid till 2026 but Saint-Maximin is unlikely to extend his contract and is considering his long term options. Along with Everton, there is also interest from Crystal Palace and Saudi Arabian clubs.

Newcastle United are looking to upgrade their squad as they prepare for Champions League football for next season and are keen to sign Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes. The winger is said to be keen on the move as a return to Premier League is in sights and there is optimism that an agreement can be reached.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barnes is close to a move to Newcastle United with a deal expected to be completed in seven to ten days. Romano further added that there is a possibility of Saint-Maximin leaving this summer.

"Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes is now close to Newcastle, I think this deal could be closed within the next seven to ten days if all goes to plan,” Romano said.It’s also possible for Allan Saint-Maximin to leave Newcastle. It’s not guaranteed yet, but it’s a possibility and is being discussed on club side. (Fabrizio Romano via Caught Offisde)"

This will be a boost for Everton in Saint-Maximin’s chase. With Barnes arriving, the Magpies could actively look to sell Saint-Maximin and the player himself may push for an exit given the added competition and possibly limited playing time.

Should EFC push for Allan Saint-Maximin?