James-Maddison-celebrates-scoring-for-Leicester-City
Newcastle United are the ‘ones to watch’ in the race for James Maddison this summer, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.
The Lowdown: The Story So Far
The Leicester City playmaker has now entered the final 18 months of his deal at the King Power, and after rejecting improved terms, looks set to be on the move at the end of the season.
The Magpies had two offers for the England international turned down last summer but reports have claimed that Eddie Howe remains an admirer and could therefore make another approach.
Brendan Rodgers recently admitted during a press conference that he won’t be ‘begging’ the 26-year-old to stay, with the hierarchy at St. James’ Park lurking and ready to pounce.
The Latest: Bailey’s comments
Speaking to TEAMtalk, Bailey revealed that Newcastle appear to be the Premier League club currently in pole position for Maddison given their long-standing interest. He said:
“Newcastle are very much the ones to watch. They really like him – they did last summer too. Eddie Howe’s backroom staff, including the transfer team, have done their checks on [him] and they badly want him.
“Manchester City and Tottenham are hovering. But if Newcastle can finish top four, they are the firm favourites to land him.”
The Verdict: Get it done…
Maddison has previously been praised for a ‘monster’ performance by journalist Josh Bunting so PIF need to act fast should they want to bring him to Newcastle ahead of their fellow competitors.
Also called Leicester’s ‘star man‘ by members of the media, The Foxes talisman currently ranks in the 99th percentile for an outstanding six statistics, including the most shots and touches in the attacking penalty area per 90 minutes.
The Coventry-born talent also has 14 goal contributions in 16 league outings this term and would offer versatility with the ability to operate in five different positions (Transfermarkt).
Finally, Maddison shares the same agent as Kieran Trippier and Matty Longstaff so this could give the northeast outfit the advantage in the race for his signature this summer.
About the Author
