Tottenham and Newcastle United are not willing to pay £50 million to sign James Maddison from Leiceser City this summer.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United are keen on James Maddison. But they are unwilling to pay beyond £30 million to secure his services. Leicester City value the Tottenham target much higher than that price point at £50 million, which could complicate the chase for the Magpies.
James Maddison is probably the most attractive name from relegated clubs, as Premier League sides are starting to circle around the playmaker. Leicester City are aware of the growing interest in the 26-year-old and are resigned to losing the Englishman, who is currently on a £110,000-a-week deal.
Newcastle United were considered the early favourites to land the attacking midfielder. Eddie Howe was keen to bring the England international in January. But Leicester City may have blocked any move to give them a chance to survive relegation.
However, with their ultimate demotion to the Championship, the Foxes find themselves in a precarious position for some of their star players. Recent reports, which turned out false, suggested Tottenham had made a combined bid of £50 million for Maddison and Harvey Barnes.
Tottenham and Newcastle United have opened talks with Maddison’s agent regarding a move, with both clubs equally interested. Spurs were seemingly looking to push ahead of the Magpies in the chase for the 26-year-old but may suffer setbacks.
While Leicester value the playmaker higher and want a significant fee of £50 million for the Tottenham target, both interested clubs are unwilling to go to that limit. Newcastle are not eager to pay over £30 million as they might exploit the Foxes’ situation.
Knowing well Maddison could leave for free next summer, Newcastle are eager to push hard to sign the attacking midfielder, currently on a £110,000-a-week deal, on the cheap. Realistically, £30 million seems cheap for the player’s quality. But such is Leicester’s situation.
They may feel the pressure to allow Maddison a transfer, with Newcastle currently ahead of Tottenham in the race. The Magpies can offer Champions League football next season, while Spurs will not play in any European competition.
That could become a telling factor in the race. But one cannot underestimate the lure of Tottenham. As things stand, Newcastle could gamble with Maddison with a lowly offer to sign him. Leicester may negotiate but may not settle for the reported £30 million valuation, which could give Spurs a chance to stake their claim. However, with neither club ready to pay £50 million, things are in the balance.
