Newcastle United will have to pay massive wages if they are to secure the signing of Leicester City midfielder and reported target James Maddison.
That’s what Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie told GiveMeSport. He claims the 25-year-old would only be interested in joining Eddie Howe’s side if they were to offer him a significantly higher wage than his current £110,000-a-week.
“What Newcastle would have to do for James Maddison is break their wage structure,” he said.
“Obviously, he’s going to be wanting significantly more than he’s on at Leicester with his contract running down. It’s just whether Newcastle are willing to go to that number.”
Maddison was frequently linked with a Tyneside move over the summer.
According to The Guardian, the Foxes rejected two bids for the England international; the second of which totalled £50m.
They claim the Midlands club were holding out for £60m, which the Magpies were not willing to spend.
Downie says Maddison demands massive wages
Kieran Trippier is currently the Toon’s highest earner, pocketing £144,000-a-week.
Downie believes Maddison’s demands would take him above the Magpies right-back, making his arrival on Tyneside all the less certain.
However, from a footballing perspective, he would be a brilliant addition to Howe’s squad.
Compared with attacking midfielders and wingers over the past year, the 25-year-old ranks in the top five percent across Europe for non-penalty goals scored. Additionally, he also ranks in the top nine percent for assists made.
As a result, he has earned statistical comparisons to Roma’s Paulo Dybala and Chelsea’s Mason Mount.
Maddison is a brilliant playmaker who would add extra creativity to Newcastle’s midfield.
His quick feet and rapid turn on the ball would push the side forward with the number ten playing at the helm.
Alternatively, he could be utilised off the right wing, cutting in and taking thunderous shots on goal – for which he has been dubbed ‘extraordinary’ by presenter Gary Lineker.
Furthermore, he is a brilliant set-piece taker, but Trippier seems to have that already covered.
Therefore, whether the Magpies decide to agree to Maddison’s terms, that awaits to be seen. But he would undoubtedly be a fantastic addition to the Toon’s squad.