We are just more than a month away from the January transfer market, and James Maddison is still on Newcastle United’s radar.
According to the Northern Echo, the Leicester City midfielder is still the Magpies’ top target heading into 2023.
The 26-year-old was a target for Eddie Howe during the summer, as he looked to add attacking reinforcements to his squad. Newcastle made two bids for Maddison, but sadly they were both turned down by the Foxes.
That was a great shame, as Maddison looks like the type of player who could take us to an even higher level. And while he missed out on a move to St James’ Park, Maddison has continued to fly in Leicester colours.
The England international has been in sensational form, providing 11 goals and assists in a struggling side.
That form earned him a place in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad, and it has also ensured that he continues to be a player Newcastle want on Tyneside.
The Northern Echo believe he is top of the club’s wanted list, but a deal still feels unlikely given reports elsewhere on what PIF’s plans for January are.
Newcastle don’t plan on spending big amid James Maddison rumours
While Maddison might be the club’s top target, he isn’t going to come cheap. It was reported during the summer that Leicester wanted at least £60million for the former Norwich City ace.
He is closer to the end of his contract, but his performances in recent months will hardly encourage Brendan Rodgers to let him leave for a bargain fee.
Some may think that money isn’t a problem for Newcastle given their honours, but that simply isn’t the case. The Magpies are very wary of financial fair play, and a report from the Telegraph has detailed what the club plan to do in January.
They have claimed that Newcastle will not be spending big money at the start of next year, as PIF look to continue their plan to grow the club steadily. The Telegraph’s report adds that Newcastle will pursue a major addition if the right player becomes available, and Maddison would fall into that bracket.
So how likely is it that Maddison moves to Newcastle in January? Personally, I can’t see it.
Leicester will be desperate to keep Maddison given how influential he has been this season. They have seriously struggled, and it doesn’t bare thinking about where they would be without him.
With that in mind, they aren’t going to want him to leave. And if he does become available, it isn’t going to be for less than the £60million they wanted in the summer.
Maddison might be the perfect player for Newcastle, but a big January move still feels unlikely.