James Maddison has reportedly agreed to personal terms on a contract with Arsenal, while a formal offer to Leicester City could soon be on the cards.
According to Gary Stephenson on Twitter, Arsenal could be pressing ahead with a move for James Maddison after agreeing on personal terms with the playmaker. The Gunners are now expected to make a formal offer for the Leicester City star, which would potentially make him the North London side’s marquee signing this summer.
Arsenal’s search for an attacking midfielder has seen them linked to numerous stars across Europe. Emile Smith Rowe is already present at the club to feature in a similar role, but Mikel Arteta has used the youngster in varied positions, including as a wide attacker.
Additionally, Martin Odegaard’s presence in the second half of the last season has seemingly elevated Arteta’s thinking in bringing a similar creator to the side after the Norwegian decided to stay in Real Madrid following his loan spell. Hence, the James Maddison links refuse to go away.
Maddison certainly fits the profile of the attacker Arteta seeks, as he can play in a No.10 role while also being equally comfortable as an attacking No.8 or even out wide. Additionally, the England international has showcased his quality in an attack-minded Leicester side over the last few seasons and has plenty of experience.
Arsenal have now reportedly agreed on personal terms with the star playmaker, paving the way for the club to make a formal offer to Leicester. It is believed that Maddison will earn £200,000-a-week after the Gunners made a bumper contract offer to him recently.
As for Leicester, they are reportedly set to demand upwards of £60 million for Maddison, who has a long-term contract at the King Power stadium. Previous reports have claimed that the Foxes are likely to hold out for a fee of £80 million for the playmaker, but Arsenal are hopeful a £60 million offer can close the deal.
The Gunners have already signed Nuno Tavares from Benfica and confirmed Albert Sambi Lokonga’s capture from Anderlecht. A central midfield partner for Thomas Partey is a priority, while a new striker could also be on the cards.
Additionally, the Gunners have also agreed a £50 million deal with Brighton for defender Ben White. If Arsenal pull off the Maddison deal, they will take their spending significantly higher than the £100 million mark this summer.
Maddison will represent a great capture for Arsenal, who are seemingly looking at making young acquisitions this transfer window. All the signings are designed to provide a greater balance in the team in the immediate sense and for the future.
