Newcastle send message to James Maddison as Toon plan third bid for Leicester star – Report

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle United are ready to launch a bid for James Maddison – but they won’t be messed around if the midfielder prefers to keep his options open.

The club have been ‘led to believe’ that the Leicester City star is open to signing at St James’ Park, yet it’s thought he’s yet to give any firm indication on his preference amid links to Spurs, Man City and Man Utd.

Luke Edwards reveals that he’s continued to receive ‘glowing endorsements’ from our recruitment teams and remains a top target after we failed with two big-money bids last summer.

However, Eddie Howe will only focus on players eager to wear the black and white shirt and be part of this exciting new project. Should Maddison stall on the move or bide his time in hope of a bid from elsewhere, it seems we could move on to other targets.

Howe is thought to be a huge fan of the 26-year-old, believing he can offer some ‘creative spark’ from open play and set pieces, helping unlock the door against deep-lying defences that may look to frustrate Newcastle next season.

Maddison is entering the final 12 months of his contract at Leicester and looks certain to leave, whether they stay up or not. With the England international expected to make a decision on his future next month, it may not be long until we get an answer.

He could be a quality signing, offering Premier League proven quality in the final third and a different option in attack, but I wouldn’t blame the club for looking elsewhere if we get the feeling he prefers a move elsewhere.