'We pick the best': Al Ahli sign Allan Saint-Maximin from Newcastle

Allan Saint-Maximin has become the latest high-level recruit to switch the Premier League for Saudi Arabia after joining Al Ahli on a three-year contract.

Newcastle United confirmed the 26-year-old French winger's departure on Sunday, though the size of the transfer fee was not disclosed.

“Everyone at Newcastle United thanks Allan for his contribution to the club and community and extends best wishes for the next chapter in his career,” Newcastle said in a statement.

"We pick the best, and he’s one of them," Al Ahli posted on messaging platform X, previously known as Twitter.

Saint-Maximin's arrival at the Jeddah club follows the signings of former Premier League players Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy and Riyad Mahrez.

Saint-Maximin was left out of Newcastle's pre-season tour of the United States, with manager Eddie Howe saying the club had to sell a player during this window due to Uefa's Financial Fair Play Regulations.

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