Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing James Maddison, but feel that the playmaker is out of their price range.
Maddison enjoyed a stunning season at Carrow Road and it appears inevitable that he will be playing Premier League football next season. He scored 14 goals and provided eight assists in the Championship this past season, and the Daily Mirror reports that the Canaries are listening to offers for their talisman.
The 21-year-old would improve almost any squad in the top flight, so it would be a stunning piece of business if Newcastle managed to win the race for his signature, and perhaps Rafa Benitez should consider offering a swap to try and bring the asking price down.
The Chronicle reported that Newcastle’s relationship with Norwich is good after the pair agreed a deal for Jacob Murphy last summer, and perhaps his name should crop up if the two teams begin discussions once again this year.
Murphy endured a difficult first season at St James’ Park, and while it was probably his potential that tempted Newcastle to sign him last year, there may well be a decent section of the Toon Army who would suggest cashing in if a reasonable offer came in for the youngster this summer.
With that in mind, Newcastle should consider suggesting to Norwich that they can have Murphy back as part of a deal that would see Maddison move the other way for a fee significantly less than the £20 million that they currently want.
Murphy was impressive for the Canaries, and Daniel Farke may perhaps be open to his return given that the club have already sold his twin brother to Cardiff City and face losing Maddison.
Maddison appears to have an enormous amount of potential, and landing him could be a massive coup for Newcastle, so considering including Murphy in the deal should be an option that Benitez gives plenty of thought to this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
