Several Premier League clubs have voiced their concerns over the transfer of Newcastle United player Allan Saint-Maximin to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli. According to the ever-reliable David Ornstein of The Athletic, these unnamed clubs are planning to formally present their objections to the Premier League regarding the imminent transfer. The reported transfer fee, quoted at £30 million, is believed to be the subject of contention among the clubs.
While there are varying reports on the exact transfer fee, with some sources suggesting figures as low as £25 million, the purported £30 million fee has raised eyebrows among football enthusiasts. Many Newcastle United fans find it puzzling, as they believe that just a year ago, no one would have considered £30 million as a reasonable valuation for Allan Saint-Maximin. Despite a somewhat underwhelming 2022/23 season marked by injuries, the 26-year-old’s market value is still considered to be at least £30 million.
Newcastle United’s Dilemma and Potential Market Value
The ongoing transfer window has seen unprecedented spending by Premier League clubs, driving up the value of flair players like Allan Saint-Maximin. While Newcastle United may have been hesitant to sell to another Premier League club to avoid facing their former player, the Saudi Pro League’s interest has presented an opportunity for a transfer. However, the involvement of Saudi Arabia PIF as the majority shareholder in both Newcastle United and Al-Ahli has given rise to suspicions of inflated transfer fees.
Premier League regulations now require scrutiny of related party transactions exceeding £1 million to ensure they align with market value. The concerned clubs contend that the transfer fee paid by Al-Ahli might be artificially inflated to assist Newcastle United in navigating Financial Fair Play restrictions. This development raises ironic observations, as some of the clubs expressing objections may have previously benefited from lucrative deals in the Saudi Pro League, with aging players securing higher-than-expected transfer fees for one final substantial payday.
Allan Saint-Maximin’s Worth and Potential Future Moves
Despite the controversies surrounding his transfer fee, there is consensus among football enthusiasts that Allan Saint-Maximin’s skills and potential justify a significant transfer valuation. At just 26 years old, the dynamic winger has already exhibited immense talent and is regarded as a valuable asset to any team. Should he excel in the Saudi Pro League, there is speculation that he could make a return to the Premier League or another major European league next summer, commanding a fee well above the reported £30 million.
As the transfer saga unfolds, the Premier League clubs’ objections and the Premier League’s scrutiny of related party transactions have added intrigue to the deal. The final transfer fee agreed upon between Al-Ahli and Newcastle United will likely be subject to close scrutiny and could have implications for future player transfers involving related parties. Allan Saint-Maximin’s potential move to Al-Ahli could prove to be one of the most captivating transfers of the summer, sparking discussions on the evolving dynamics of football’s global transfer market.
