Ex-Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin agrees MLS move to replace Wilfried Zaha at Charlotte FC

Former Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin is set for a new adventure in Major League Soccer after agreeing a deal to join Charlotte FC.

The French attacker will leave Lens after just a few months back in Ligue 1, with the ambitious MLS side moving quickly to secure his signature following Wilfried Zaha’s departure.

Charlotte win race for Saint-Maximin

According to L’Equipe, Saint-Maximin has agreed terms with Charlotte FC ahead of a summer move to the United States.

The 29-year-old had only returned to France earlier this year, but the opportunity to become one of Charlotte’s marquee players has convinced him to embark on a new challenge in North America.

Lens had hoped to keep the winger after an impressive second half of the season, but the player’s desire to complete the move ultimately proved decisive.

The transfer is expected to be finalised when the MLS transfer window opens.

Zaha exit creates perfect opportunity

Charlotte’s pursuit of Saint-Maximin accelerated after the club lost one of their biggest stars.

Former Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha recently confirmed his departure, leaving a valuable Designated Player position available within the squad.

Saint-Maximin is expected to occupy that slot, allowing Charlotte to invest heavily in one of the league’s most exciting attacking additions.

The Designated Player rule enables clubs to sign high-profile talents outside the league’s standard salary cap restrictions, underlining just how highly Charlotte rate their incoming recruit.

Remarkable journey since Newcastle exit

Saint-Maximin’s move to MLS marks another chapter in a career that has taken him across multiple leagues since leaving Newcastle in 2023.

The Frenchman departed St James’ Park in a deal worth around £23 million after making 124 appearances for the Magpies and becoming a fan favourite thanks to his electrifying dribbling ability and flair.

Following his exit from England, he joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli before spending time on loan at Fenerbahce under Jose Mourinho.

He later enjoyed a spell with Club America before returning to France with Lens in February 2026.

Lens revival sparks MLS interest

While his stay at Lens was short, it proved highly successful.

Saint-Maximin quickly rediscovered the form that once made him one of the Premier League’s most entertaining players, contributing four goals and three assists in just 13 appearances.

His performances helped Lens enjoy a memorable campaign, with the club lifting the Coupe de France and securing a second-place finish in Ligue 1.

Those displays attracted significant interest and ultimately convinced Charlotte that he was the ideal candidate to lead their attack following Zaha’s exit.

Now, after reviving his career in France, Saint-Maximin is preparing for a fresh challenge in MLS as he looks to become the latest European star to make an impact in the United States.