Newcastle forward Allan Saint-Maximin confirms move to Saudi Arabia

The French international will join Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, which is also owned by the Newcastle owners.

The attacker, who joined from Nice in August 2019 and scored 13 goals in 124 games, stated that being a part of the squad was his "greatest trophy."

He has confirmed his move to Saudi Arabia pending an official announcement from both clubs.

Saint-Maximin posted on his social media page as reported by BBC, saying, "Even though this chapter has ended, the story never stops. Newcastle is home now. I'll continue to be your biggest supporter."

Eddie Howe took over the team a month after the PIF purchase in October 2021 and has undergone significant change.

Newcastle will make its first appearance in the Champions League in 20 years after placing fourth last season.

In an emotional social media post, Saint-Maximin wrote as reported by BBC, "I fell for Newcastle, I had great opportunities to leave during dark days, but that was too late I was already in love.

“I wanted, I needed, I had to stay for helping my team to save the club from Premier League relegation because it meant the world to me.

"Of course, during those dark days some may have had their doubts, but I always believed in this club and look where we are today, it's just so beautiful. 

"I'm leaving Newcastle as it should always have been and that's my greatest trophy because I was a part of it."

Howe has been successful in acquiring English winger Harvey Barnes from Leicester for £38 million and Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali from AC Milan for £55 million this summer.