Newcastle United will sell Allan Saint-Maximin "if they get the right fee" in the January transfer window, according to journalist Tom Barclay.

What's the latest news involving Saint-Maximin?

Saint-Maximin joined Newcastle from French side Nice in the summer of 2019, with the Magpies forking out £16.5million for his services.

He has gone on to enjoy a stellar spell on Tyneside, racking up 62 appearances and becoming a firm fan favourite.

Newcastle looked to protect their asset by tying the Frenchman down to a new six-year contract last October.

Prior to the summer transfer window opening, Magpies boss Steve Bruce claimed "the last thing we want to do is sell our best players”.

But Saint-Maximin's new deal, worth £38,462-per-week, has not deterred suitors as reports suggest, following his impressive early season form, Premier League rivals Liverpool, Arsenal and Everton are keeping tabs on the winger.

Everton boss Rafa Benitez was even linked with plotting a £50million move for the 24-year-old, although Saint-Maximin has a £60million price tag.

There were not just Premier League clubs pursuing Saint-Maximin while the transfer window was open as Italian side Roma were also understood to be interested.

Enter Giveaway

Enter Giveaway

What has Tom Barclay said about Saint-Maximin?

Barclay believes clubs will strengthen their interest in Saint-Maximin if he continues to be Newcastle's standout performer.

Despite the Magpies' early season struggles, with them going into today's clash with Watford in the Premier League relegation zone and without a win, Saint-Maximin has scored two goals and claimed as many assists.

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Barclay feels Newcastle may allow Saint-Maximin to depart if a significant bid is lodged when the transfer window reopens.

The journalist told GMS: "I think if he continues this form, then it's unlikely that bigger clubs won't come calling for him.

"Historically, under Mike Ashley, Newcastle have shown they'll sell players if they get the right fee."

Who has been praising Saint-Maximin?

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville described Saint-Maximin, who won six international caps for the France under-21s, as "absolutely breathtaking" after his goalscoring performance in last week's 1-1 draw with Leeds United.

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer - who remains the Premier League's all-time leading goalscorer after finding the back of the net 260 times - told Premier League Productions, via Chronicle Live, that Saint-Maximin was "special" after the Magpies' win at Burnley last season.

Former Newcastle boss Graeme Souness and ex-England striker Emile Heskey have also hailed the Frenchman during his time at St James' Park.