Newcastle United believe long-term transfer target James Maddison would prefer to join other clubs over Eddie Howe’s side.
That’s according to The Telegraph.
They report that there’s a growing sense that the Leicester City star would opt for other options over the Toon, if he had the choice.
The 26-year-old has been linked with a move to Tyneside since the summer, when the Magpies had two offers worth up to £50m rejected by the Foxes.
At the time, it was said that Brendan Rodgers’ side valued him closer to the £60m mark.
However, despite their reignited interest, it seems like Maddison would decide against joining Newcastle if another top offer came in for him.
Maddison prefers other options over Newcastle
This will come as a huge blow for Howe, who has been set on signing the Leicester playmaker for some time now.
Despite the Foxes’ poor start to the season, Maddison has remained a bright spark.
In 13 Premier League matches thus far, the attacker has managed to bag seven goals and four assists.
With the versatility to play either as a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder or out on the right wing, the 26-year-old is very appealing to Dan Ashworth and his recruitment staff.
However, although the side sit fourth in the top-flight table, its believed the England international would likely choose clubs from the ‘traditional big six’ over Newcastle.
This seems like a poor decision on the player’s behalf, as Howe’s project on Tyneside is definitely one of the most exciting prospects in modern football.
Hailed as ‘extraordinary’ by BBC pundit Gary Lineker, Maddison would really suit the Magpies team.
Therefore, this is a big blow for the Toon.
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