While only three transfer windows – all of which have come in very different circumstances – hardly offer much sample size, there has been one particular recruitment trait to have emerged at Newcastle since the takeover.
Though many onlookers may have expected the club to make incoherent superstar signings in the PIF era, their approach has been much more measured. Indeed, they are clearly prepared to wait when it comes to making the necessary additions.
Sven Botman, after all, was first targeted during the January transfer window in 2022 but eventually arrived around a half a year later after Newcastle were initially blocked in their pursuit of the Dutchman. Anthony Gordon, meanwhile, was a target last summer but finally made the move earlier this year.
When Newcastle want a player, it’s pretty obvious they are prepared to wait.
Dan Ashworth leading the charge for James Maddison
So then, it’s hardly surprising to see James Maddison linked with a move to St James’ Park.
According to talkSPORT, the England international was the subject of bids from Newcastle last summer, though Leicester managed to hold firm and keep their £60m-rated star man.
However, Newcastle could be in a much stronger position this time around. Not only will the 26-year-old have just a year to go on his contract by the time the transfer window opens but Leicester themselves are reportedly needing to raise funds.
The Foxes announced a £92m loss for the end of 2021-22 season and this summer offers the last chance to sell Maddison for anything approaching maximum value.
Sporting director Dan Ashworth is said to be leading the chase for his signature, though could face competition from Tottenham and a fresh bid is thought to be likely.
Maddison is surely entering the end-game at Leicester
With Brendan Rodgers’ side struggling towards the bottom of the Premier League, they surely do not have much of a chance of keeping Maddison long-term.
The fact he has let his contract down to this stage says a lot about where he sees his future. Unlikely to be short of offers, the Newcastle project is certainly an exciting one to consider, albeit a number of top clubs have been linked.
Patience has proven to be a virtue for Newcastle in the PIF era. If they get Maddison this summer, potentially for a reduced price given his contractual situation, it’d be the finest example of that yet.