Callum Wilson already amazed by £40m star who Newcastle almost signed this summer

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Had things gone differently, James Maddison would be shining in a Newcastle United shirt right now.

The England international was one of the Magpies’ top targets this summer, and there was even belief that he was eager to make the move to St James’ Park.

However, he went to Tottenham Hotspur instead. He cost Ange Postecoglu’s side £40million, and he has enjoyed an excellent start at his new club.

Maddison has been one of the best players in the Premier League from the opening three games, scoring one goal and providing two assists. He has been outstanding since leaving Leicester City, serving as a reminder to what Newcastle could have had.

But the Magpies decided that Maddison was not essential, and went all in on Sandro Tonali instead. The Italian looks like a brilliant acquisition, but there is no denying that Maddison would have been an excellent signing too.

Callum Wilson chuffed for James Maddison this season

Newcastle striker Callum Wilson has spoke on the latest episode of the Footballer’s Football podcast, and admitted that he has been really impressed with Maddison’s start at Tottenham.

“Madders, someone I know really well, he’s a top player and he’s really settled into that team and made that position his own,” he said.

“He’s becoming a leader within the club. You can see that. It looks and feels like everybody likes him and gets along with him which is easy enough because he’s a good character.

“Having been relegated last year, it’s nice to see him playing his football in a top team and flourishing.”

If only Newcastle had signed him

Had money not been an issue, Newcastle probably would have signed Maddison this summer. But the Magpies had to be careful with their cash, as they looked to improve in multiple positions ahead of competing in the Champions League.

Newcastle’s need to look at the bigger picture scuppered their move for Maddison, but he was obviously a player who the recruitment team really wanted to bring to St James’ Park. After all, this was the third transfer window in a row that they tried to sign him.

It is no surprise to see him doing so well in a Tottenham shirt, with Maddison filling the void left by Harry Kane. There is renewed belief at Spurs under Postecoglu, who has enlisted Maddison as one of his main men.

Wilson is delighted to see his friend thriving, but he must secretly wish he could call him his teammate.