Newcastle United are now in the business of making statement signings.
Bruno Guimaraes and Sven Botman had interest from Arsenal and AC Milan respectively before moving to St James’ Park, offering an indication as to the type of signings the club are now in the market for.
Indeed, that shows little signs of slowing down this summer.
Leicester City and England midfielder James Maddison continues to be linked with a move to Newcastle this summer.
The subject of a number of bids last summer, the £60m-rated star will have only a year left on his contract at the end of the season.
With that in mind, he’s likely to be in demand.
Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham have all been linked with a move for the former Norwich playmaker.
Clearly, whoever lands Maddison will be getting a huge talent. Even despite a difficult season for his club, the 26-year-old has scored nine goals while registering six assists.
Gabriel Agbonlahor backs Newcastle for top four finish next season if they sign James Maddison
Such is the level of Maddison’s talent, he’s widely expected to make an impact for any team lucky enough to sign him.
According to talkSPORT pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor, Newcastle landing him could spell the end of the top four for Liverpool.
“If Newcastle go out and do the right business – go and get Maddison, for instance – I think Newcastle will finish above Liverpool next season as well,” he said.
“Liverpool are in danger of missing out on the top four next season as well.”
Things are already changing in the top four
Newcastle’s push for Champions League qualification is largely down to two factors.
Largely, it’s because of the stunning form Eddie Howe’s side have shown all season, losing just twice in the Premier League.
Still, it would be disingenuous to suggest they have not been helped by all of Chelsea, Liverpool and Spurs having poor seasons.
While things are already changing in the top four, signings like Maddison would certainly strengthen Newcastle’s position long-term.
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