Steve Bruce has insisted that Allan Saint-Maximin won’t be going anywhere this summer, saying the Frenchman is “100%” staying on Tyneside.
Bruce has also confirmed the club remain in talks with Arsenal over a move for top target Joe Willock, stating that he’s ‘still hopeful’ that we can ‘reach an agreement’ to re-sign the midfielder.
Speaking after today’s 3-0 win over Norwich at St James’ Park, the NUFC boss was also asked if fans will have new signings to look forward to ahead of next weekend’s clash with West Ham.
To that he said “I really, really hope so”, stressing that he’ll “try his utmost” to make sure there’s a breakthrough before West Ham come to town a week tomorrow.
Here’s what he’s had to say to BBC Newcastle and The Gazette’s Miles Starforth after the game:
Bruce when asked if he’ll have new signings in by next Sunday:
“I really, really hope so….
“We’re still hopeful we can get our main target.
“I’ll try my utmost to make it happen.”
Bruce on Joe Willock
“We’re in dialogue with Arsenal, but we have to respect he’s their player.
“Until we can reach an agreement with Arsenal, and what they want, the rest is immaterial.”
Bruce on Saint-Maximin’s future:
“Absolutely, 100%, I will say we’re keeping him.’
“It’s vital we keep him fit and well.”
Bruce on 3-0 win vs Norwich
“We were certainly better in the second half.
“Jonjo Shelvey gave us a bit more control of the ball.
“I was delighted with the defending, the goalkeeper looked assured, and everybody who came on to the pitch knew the way we were going to play.”
That is a spot on assessment, I was there and 2nd half we were buzzing.
Peter Richardson(Quote)