Journalist Scott Wilson has claimed that Newcastle have identified James Maddison as their number one target heading into the January transfer window.
The Magpies diverted their attention to the Leicester City playmaker last month making two bids with the second in the region of £50m.
However, the Foxes were thought to be seeking around the £60m mark for the creative midfielder as Maddison’s position became a priority for the Toon.
It now appears that Eddie Howe and the club will try once again to tempt the east Midlanders into parting with the 25-year-old.
Taking to Twitter alongside a report from the Northern Echo detailing Newcastle’s winter plans Wilson posted: ‘#NUFC will make James Maddison their number one January target. Eddie Howe still wants an attacking-midfielder, and Maddison has entered final two years of current deal and was keen to move to Tyneside in the summer…’
The fact that former Norwich City man was willing to make the switch could only encourage future advances from Tyneside.
Leicester have made a disappointing start to the Premier League season and if that were to continue it may only fuel Maddison’s desire to leave.
He ranks as the club’s second highest performer in the league this term (SofaScore) scoring twice and providing one assist in five appearances.
The one-cap England international has been directly involved in 51 goals in the top flight and is coming off the back of a campaign that saw him score 18 goals and produce a further 12 assists.
He would certainly bring a bucket load of quality to St. James’ Park with former Newcastle man Lee Clark describing Maddison’s ability in the final third as “terrific” and it would be a very exciting addition for Howe if Dan Ashworth can cut a deal.
One which could very well propel the Magpies up the table in the second half of the season.
