Kevin Campbell hopes Newcastle sign Trossard

Allan Saint-Maximin has an uncertain future at Newcastle United amid links with Aston Villa and Kevin Campbell believes Brighton & Hove Albion’s Leandro Trossard would be a good replacement if the 25-year-old leaves.

Newcastle are reportedly open to selling Saint-Maximin for £50m this summer and will need to replace his goals and assists, so Trossard wouldn’t be a bad alternative.

The 27-year-old has scored 15 goals with nine assists in 99 games since joining Brighton on a four-year deal from KRC Genk in 2019. Trossard had a hand in 10 goals in the Premier League last season and has contributed six goals in 29 league outings this campaign, so is he really prolific enough?

Campbell thinks he’s worth a punt, telling Football Insider: “He is one of these players that goes under the radar at Brighton. I think he’s an exceptional player, I really do. Every time I see him he is good, neat, his technique is good and he causes problems.

“If he can add more goals to his game he will be worth a hell of a lot money. Newcastle and Eddie Howe obviously see the potential in him. I think it would be a great move for player and club.”

Trossard has made 52/73 successful dribbles, which is more than Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (51). He’s also created 34 chances while whipping in 41 crosses, so he clearly provides a threat in the final third.

Brighton won’t want to sell, but Trossard’s contract is up in just over a year, so the Seagulls may be forced to cash in if they can’t tie him down to a new deal.

In other news, Noel Whelan says it ‘doesn’t make sense’ selling Allan Saint-Maximin