James Maddison celebrates scoring for Leicester City
Journalist Fabrizio Romano says that Arsenal are not in talks to sign Leicester City attacking midfielder James Maddison this summer, contrary to reports.
The Lowdown: Arsenal ‘kept informed’
It was reported earlier this week that Arsenal have been ‘kept informed’ of Maddison’s situation at Leicester, with him only having 18 months left on his current deal.
He is thought to have turned down numerous offers from the club to extend it, with Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City also thought to be in the race for his signature.
The Latest: Not in talks
Writing for CaughtOffside, Romano says that the Gunners are in fact ‘not in talks’ to sign Maddison, and his future will not be decided for another few months:
“Despite reports, Arsenal are currently not in talks to sign James Maddison at this stage. Newcastle have had Maddison on their list since last summer.
“Nothing will be decided on Maddison’s future before May/June.”
The Verdict: Is he needed?
With captain Martin Odegaard already at the club, and Fabio Vieira signed in the summer, one could question if the North London club need to sign Maddison.
Lauded as an ‘absolutely outstanding‘ player by his manager Brendan Rodgers, the 26-year-old has been so impressive this season, despite Leicester’s struggles in the bottom half of the league.
He has managed to score nine goals and supply a further five assists in the Premier League so far (Transfermarkt), and made the England squad for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar off the back of his impressive performances.
Although primarily an attacking midfielder, Maddison is capable of playing slightly deeper, and so could fit in Mikel Arteta‘s 4-3-3 attacking system as the left-sided central midfielder, with Odegaard the right.
Nonetheless, signing him would be a shrewd move from the Emirates Stadium outfit, providing that they can find a place for him in the starting line-up.
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