Transfer insider Dean Jones has provided his verdict on the future of Newcastle United winger, Allan Saint-Maximin.

What's the word?

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the reliable source revealed that the Frenchman's position at St James' Park could be under threat, as the Magpies chase further attacking additions this summer.

Amid reported interest in the likes of James Maddison and Jack Harrison, Jones stated: “The information I’ve had is that all summer, Newcastle have been looking for a wide forward as well as a centre forward. That means that the long-term future for Saint-Maximin at Newcastle is probably bleak. But he’s had flashes of good moments in preseason that will give him hope, so we’ll have to wait and see.”

The same source previously revealed back in May that the 25-year-old could well be moved on by the northeast side, with further reports stating that the club were willing to cash in for a fee of around £50m.

Howe heading for disaster

While the former Nice man - who arrived in England on a £16.5m deal three years ago - has at times been scrutinised for his apparent inconsistency, it would seemingly represent a notable mistake were the Tynesiders to sanction his departure this summer.

A cult hero among the club's support, Saint-Maximin has become the real heartbeat of the current Newcastle side, with manager Eddie Howe - who only recently signed a new long-term deal - heading for disaster if he does opt to move on such a beloved figure.

The fleet-footed winger has dazzled the Premier League with his remarkable combination of speed and trickery, continually making a mockery of defenders in a manner that provides sheer joy and entertainment for both supporters and neutrals alike.

While his attacking output could undoubtedly be better - with just 11 goals and 13 assists in 86 Premier League appearances to date - his influence seemingly goes beyond his statistical record, with such a talent not always best represented by his goal contributions.

Dubbed a "genius" by Peter Edmiston, the £28.8m-rated ace is simply a master at carrying the ball forward and penetrating opposition defences, as he notably ranks in the top 1% for dribbles completed and the top 13% for progressive carries among those in his position across Europe's top five leagues.

That quality in possession was evident in the opening day victory over newly-promoted Nottingham Forest on Saturday, with the £93k-per-week menace labelled a 'constant threat' by Chronicle journalist Lee Ryder in his post-match player ratings.

Those of a Newcastle persuasion will be hoping that such an outing - which saw the 5 foot 8 playmaker take home an impressive 7.5 match rating, as per SofaScore - can persuade Howe and co to keep the mercurial talent at the club in the long-term, with it set to prove a big error for all concerned if he is to depart.