Title: Premier League Clubs Raise Concerns Over Allan Saint-Maximin’s Proposed Move to Al Ahli
Introduction
Several Premier League clubs are planning to voice their concerns to the league regarding the potential transfer of Allan Saint-Maximin from Newcastle United to Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli. The reported £30 million deal has raised suspicions among clubs, as both teams involved are under the same majority ownership, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). This article will delve into the details of the proposed transfer, the concerns raised by Premier League clubs, and the implications for financial fair play rules.
Premier League Clubs Question the Market Value
Premier League regulations now require all transactions above £1 million to be checked to ensure they align with the “market value.” Several English top-flight teams argue that the PIF link is being exploited to inflate Saint-Maximin’s transfer fee, disguising an injection of capital as a transfer fee to help Newcastle United comply with financial fair play rules. These clubs are demanding greater transparency and scrutiny around the process of establishing market value in such situations.
Newcastle United’s Valuation and Ownership Structure
Newcastle United, who underwent a takeover in October 2021, are confident in their valuation of 26-year-old Saint-Maximin. The Premier League approved the takeover after receiving “legally binding assurances” that the Saudi state would not control the club. PIF owns 80% of Newcastle United, with Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners and the Reuben family each holding a 10% stake.
PIF’s Involvement in Saudi Pro League
In June, Saudi Arabia announced that PIF would acquire a 75% stake in four founding members of its Pro League: Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr. The remaining 25% would be controlled by a non-profit organization. This move has attracted high-profile players from Europe, including Karim Benzema, Roberto Firmino, and Chelsea trio Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and N’Golo Kante, who have joined the Saudi Pro League. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were also linked to moves to the Saudi Pro League but opted for other destinations.
Saint-Maximin’s Potential Move to Al Ahli
According to The Athletic, Saint-Maximin has been in talks with Al Ahli over a possible move. He was absent from Newcastle United’s friendly win against Rangers, with head coach Eddie Howe confirming that the player was in discussions to leave the club. Saint-Maximin has not joined the team for their pre-season tour in the United States. However, if Al Ahli were UEFA-affiliated, the transfer would be blocked due to new multi-club ownership rules introduced earlier this month.
Newcastle United’s Financial Fair Play Dilemma
Eddie Howe expressed Newcastle United’s reluctance to lose Saint-Maximin but acknowledged that financial fair play regulations may force their hand. The club is bound by the need to balance their books and comply with financial fair play rules. Howe stated that trading players is necessary to meet these requirements and strengthen the squad. While Newcastle United wants to retain Saint-Maximin, they may have to consider his departure as a means to comply with financial regulations.
Conclusion
The proposed transfer of Allan Saint-Maximin from Newcastle United to Al Ahli has raised concerns among several Premier League clubs. They believe that the transfer fee is being inflated through the connection between both teams’ common ownership, potentially disguising an injection of capital as a transfer fee. These clubs are calling for greater transparency and scrutiny in establishing market value. As Newcastle United navigates their financial fair play obligations, they may have to reluctantly part ways with Saint-Maximin. The outcome of this transfer saga will shed light on the Premier League’s commitment to ensuring fair play and financial transparency within the league.