After losing Maddison, Newcastle likely to go for ‘incredible’ player – journalist

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After a pursuit that has gone on for almost 12 months, it now looks like Newcastle United will definitely not be signing James Maddison.

The Leicester City midfielder has been one of Eddie Howe’s top targets heading into the 2023 summer transfer window, but a deal to bring him to St James’ Park now appears to be off.

It was reported last week that the Magpies had cooled their interest in the 26-year-old, which was good news for Tottenham Hotspur and their interest in the England international.

Now Spurs are making their move, and hope to agree a fee with the Foxes this week. On top of that, they have also agreed personal terms with Maddison.

All signs point towards Maddison signing for Spurs, meaning Newcastle will have to take their business elsewhere in their bid to get an attacking midfielder.

And an update from Sky Sports has hinted at what the Toon recruitment team will do now.

Newcastle to turn to Dominik Szoboszlai after James Maddison decision

According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Tottenham are ‘optimistic’ that they are going to sign Maddison. He adds that it is ‘likely’ that Newcastle will now shift towards RB Leipzig superstar Dominik Szoboszlai.

That is not a surprise, as he was the other attacking midfielder on Howe’s radar. If anything, a move for the Hungarian made more sense due to his lower wage demands and age.

With Maddison seemingly off the table, we will truly see how much Newcastle want to sign Szoboszlai now that the alternative is no longer available.

A lot of fans would rather see the ‘incredible‘ 22-year-old arrive at St James’ Park, with many supporters growing tired of the Maddison saga.

But whatever happens will depend on funds. Newcastle are already splashing out on Sandro Tonali, and now a move for Tino Livramento is on the cards. Szoboszlai will not come cheap, with RB Leipzig wanting his £60million release clause paid in full.

And they could demand an even bigger fee soon, with that release clause set to expire on Friday.