Journalist Ben Jacobs has admitted there’s no deal in place for Newcastle United to sign James Maddison in January – but there is an opportunity for them to make it happen.
Newcastle were heavily linked with Maddison over the summer, with the Magpies lodging two unsuccessful bids for the England international, and it’s obvious to see why considering how strongly he’s performed this season, with 11 goal involvements to his name.
Despite missing out on Maddison a few months ago, reports have suggested that Newcastle still hold a strong interest in the attacking midfielder and claim PIF will look to sign him during the January transfer window.
Jacobs has confirmed nothing is yet done between the two parties, but has admitted on the NUFC Matters YouTube channel that the Magpies have an opportunity to land him.
Will Newcastle sign Maddison next month?
Yes!
No!
He said: “It’s a bit of chicken and egg at the moment. If Newcastle want Maddison in January – and it isn’t a done deal, as I understand it, by any stretch of the imagination – they’re going to have to pay big. But there is an opportunity.”
TIF Thoughts on interest in Maddison…
Given his current output, the England ace would, without doubt, add creativity to Newcastle’s side as they look to consolidate their place inside the top four just a season on from battling against relegation. However, the only thing that could put them off is the price tag.
It has been reported that Leicester want around £60m for Maddison, but given his start to the season, the fact he went to the World Cup and that it would be hard to replace him in January, that price tag may skyrocket further next month.
Therefore, Newcastle could do worse than moving on to other targets and improving areas of the pitch that may need more urgent attention before going back to Maddison in the summer – and hopefully for their sake, with European football to offer him.