Newcastle transfer news: Dwindling contract situation sees St James’ Park chiefs plot massive January move

Newcastle United are reportedly planning to submit a new James Maddison bid in the January transfer window, as the Leicester star’s contract starts to run down.

Toon boss Eddie Howe failed in his efforts to land the England playmaker over the summer, with Newcastle believed to have placed an offer of up to £50million on the table.

Leicester held firm in their valuation of the 25-year-old, who they believe is worth at least £60m.

However, a fresh report from Football Insider claims that Newcastle will renew their interest in the new year. They are confident that the player’s dwindling contract, which runs out in the summer of 2024, will mean his price is reduced.

FI adds that Newcastle’s recruitment team are keeping close tabs on Maddison. Indeed, they are retaining a line of communication with his representatives.

Howe is known to be a big admirer of the classy Foxes star and has given the nod for a continued pursuit.

Maddison has scored three goals and added an assist for a Leicester side currently sitting bottom of the table.

While Brendan Rodgers’ job remains safe for the time being, it’s believed the Foxes are already sounding out potential replacements.

Rodgers was unhappy with the club’s decision to sell top defender Wesley Fofana to Chelsea. Add that to murmurings of Maddison also leaving and Leicester’s poor start, and things are seemingly coming to a head.

Maddison a top target from Prem clubs

Maddison’s goal involvements make him one of the most prized assets in the Premier League. Indeed, the former Aberdeen man scored 18 goals and added 12 assists in 53 games last season.

But his hefty price tag has scared a number of clubs off, including the likes of Tottenham and Liverpool.

As for Newcastle, Howe continues to rebuild his squad and is looking to continue the club’s momentum from the last two windows.

Following a busy January, the Magpies then snapped up Sven Botman, Alexander Isak, Matt Targett, Nick Pope, and Lorius Karius over the summer.

However, they’ve only managed to secure one Premier League win so far, although they have drawn five of seven.

Next up for Howe’s men is a trip to Craven Cottage to take on Fulham on October 1.

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