Newcastle could sign James Maddison for less than initially expected

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Newcastle United tried and failed to sign James Maddison last summer, with money proving to be the issue.

The Magpies made two bids for the Leicester City midfielder, but they were both turned down. The Foxes held out for £60million, with no one paying the fee they wanted.

Fast forward 12 months and a move away beckons for Maddison, who is still on Newcastle’s radar. Leicester have been relegated to the Championship, while the 26-year-old is going into the final year of his contract at the King Power Stadium.

It has previously been reported that he is valued at £50million, but a new story from the Athletic suggests that Newcastle can do a deal for even less.

Newcastle target James Maddison now valued at £40million

According to the Athletic, multiple intermediaries believe that Maddison is worth £40million this summer. However, they add that Leicester could command a bigger fee if multiple clubs show an interest and create a bidding war.

Newcastle are obviously keen, and have been since last summer. There is also interest from Tottenham, who appeared to be the favourites to win his signature once upon a time. However, their lack of European football will likely change things.

The Athletic also suggest that Arsenal and Manchester United are keen, who both have the lure of Champions League football like Eddie Howe’s side. A bid from either side could create an issue for the Magpies.

In an ideal world, Newcastle are the only club that is serious about signing Maddison. That could allow them to get a bargain, as £40million for a player of Maddison’s calibre is an absolute steal.

While the Foxes endured a rotten season that ended in relegation, Maddison enjoyed another stellar year in the Premier League. He scored 10 goals and provided nine assists.

Those kind of numbers from midfield will appeal to Howe, who is looking to sign someone who can add something different to his side. Maddison is exactly that – a player who is capable of breaking the lines in tight games. He is versatile too, boasting the ability to play in multiple positions.

If he is available for £40million, a deal for Maddison is surely a no brainer for Newcastle.