Eddie Howe is driving Newcastle United’s interest in a transfer for James Maddison, having now marked the Leicester City star Tottenham Hotspur are in talks to sign as his key target.
That’s according to The Guardian, who report Howe has identified Maddison as a player he wants on Tyneside this summer. But the Foxes have rejected the Magpies’ opening offer of £40m, despite not yet making a single signing as their budget relies on players leaving first.
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Newcastle are determined to back Howe in the sales and want to get a host of deals across the line before the Premier League starts. The Toon have so far spent £35m for Howe’s top defensive target, Sven Botman, plus £12m on Nick Pope and £15m to retain Matt Targett.
Howe hopes Maddison can switch to St James’ Park before Newcastle start their season at home to Nottingham Forest on August 6. Magpies chiefs are currently weighing up making an improved bid for the 25-year-old, who hit 18 goals and 12 assists in 53 games last term.
Maddison offered 12 of his goals, plus eight assists, through 35 appearances in the Premier League over 2,466 minutes. It was the one-cap England international’s best hauls for goals and assists since his move to the King Power Stadium from Norwich City for £25m in 2018.
Leicester want Newcastle to up James Maddison bid amid Tottenham interest
Leicester will demand Newcastle substantially increase their offer to fulfil Howe’s interest in Maddison’s potential transfer now, though. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth claims the Foxes value the Coventry-born creator closer to £60m, with his contract running until 2024.
King Power chiefs extended his terms back in 2020 with a £110k-a-week deal, and he has continued to impress since. Boss Brendan Rodgers hailed his performances as ‘absolutely outstanding’ this May, as he had consistently performed for the East Midlands last season.
“He’s been our most efficient player this season,” Rodgers said, via Leicestershire Live. “I had seen some highlights of the game last night when they were talking about Kevin De Bruyne scoring 18 goals as a midfield player.
“With all due respect, he’s playing in a top team. James has had to work for every goal he’s had this season, he’s not on penalties. But he’s been absolutely outstanding.”
So outstanding were Maddison’s displays that Tottenham are also interested in a deal with Leicester for Howe’s key Newcastle target. Dean Jones has noted that Antonio Conte’s side spoke to the Foxes earlier this month, but their price tag is likely more than Spurs will pay.
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