According to Craig Hope, Leicester would sell James Maddison to Premier League rivals Newcastle for £50m.
What’s the story?
Well, it was said that Newcastle have already submitted a bid worth £45m for the England international.
However, for just £5m more, Eddie Howe can get his man.
There is a catch, though. Hope believes Leicester will sell their No.10 to Newcastle for £50m, as long as they receive all of the money upfront in a lump sum, rather than instalments.
After the Saudi Arabian takeover, the Magpies have the resources to make such an offer, although Financial Fair Play restrictions mean Newcastle are unlikely to spend £50m upfront, as it would limit what other business they could do.
Hope adds that Newcastle are also unlikely to offer £50m upfront as it goes against their valuation of Maddison.
Arsenal and Tottenham are also said to be keen on signing the 25-year-old, who Jose Enrique has described as an “amazing” footballer.
Interest in Maddison comes after he enjoyed a phenomenal 2021/22 season for Leicester, scoring 18 goals while also providing 12 assists in all competitions.
Newcastle must act fast with James Maddison
As Hope mentions, the danger for Newcastle now is that other clubs pinch Maddison from them.
A market has now been opened up for the Coventry-born playmaker, so Howe risks losing out on the attacking midfielder if another side comes in with an offer of £50m upfront.
It is decision time for Newcastle.
In our view, it comes down to a question of whether the Magpies want Maddison so badly, they’re prepared not to do any other business this summer.
With reinforcements still needed out wide, that would be a risk for Howe, although a midfield of Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes and Maddison is enough to make your mouth water – only time will tell what happens.
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