Newcastle United are now confident about signing James Maddison from Leicester City in the summer transfer market. Eddie Howe has also marked the playmaker as his top target.
That is according to 90min, which reports Newcastle intend to push to sign Maddison once the summer transfer window opens. Howe is determined to see the Magpies sign, at least, two new forwards over the off-season. But the Leicester maestro is the Toon’s top target.
St James’ Park chiefs are increasingly optimistic about their chances of taking the 26-year-old to Tyneside, as well. The Coventry-born conductor enters into the final year of his deal at the King Power Stadium in July. So, the Foxes will have to decide his future in the team.
Maddison is an instrumental part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans in the East Midlands following 17 Premier League appearances this season. He has also offered nine goals and five assists over those outings and started in 16. He even captained the Foxes in his past two outings.
But Rodgers was without Maddison whilst Arsenal beat Leicester 1-0 last Saturday due to an illness. The one-cap England international could also sit out their FA Cup fifth-round tie at home to Blackburn Rovers. Leicester will host the Championship club on Tuesday night.
Newcastle are confident of winning the transfer tussle for Leicester star Maddison
Leicester rejected two offers from Newcastle for Maddison’s transfer last summer rising to £50m, per The Guardian. The Foxes wanted £60m at the time but are now weaker with the £110k-a-week star out of contract in 2024. But they are in talks over potential fresh terms.
Reports by The Telegraph note Leicester have moved to fend off Newcastle’s interest in his transfer by intensifying talks with Maddison about a new contract. Tottenham Hotspur are in the hunt for his signature, as well. While 90min has also linked Arsenal and Manchester City.
Yet Newcastle are confident of winning the tussle for Maddison’s transfer from Leicester in the summer sales. He would offer Howe a new central attacking midfield option or a figure on the right. While Rodgers has called Maddison ‘sensational’ in the past for his creativity.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
