Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Change of approach could see Tottenham pursue £60m man that Antonio Conte admires

James Maddison Brendan Rodgers Leicester September 2022

Tottenham Hotspur could make a concerted effort to land James Maddison next summer with Antonio Conte a firm admirer of the Leicester man, according to a report.

Maddison impressed against Spurs at the weekend, scoring with a hooked effort to give Leicester hope of a shock victory. The midfielder’s classy finish just before half-time sent the Foxes in level at 2-2. But the game was eventually taken away from them by a 13-minute hat-trick by Son Heung-min.

Maddison though impressed for Brendan Rodgers’ side, who in fact had more possession and shots on goal. The 25-year-old is no stranger to Antonio Conte and his backroom team. Spurs did mull over making a move for the player in the summer.

Conte forked out over £150m on new signings, but Spurs did not go after Maddison with any conviction. Newcastle were the team to approach the midlands club and made two offers.

As per The Guardian, Newcastle made two official bids for Maddison. The second of which was understood to be worth £45m plus £5m in add-ons.

Leicester are believed to value Maddison in the £60m bracket, but his value will fall with his contract running down. Maddison has entered the last two years of his deal.

Rodgers has revealed that talks have taken place over a new deal, but so far no agreement has been reached. And Maddison is facing a huge crossroads in his career.

The one-cap England man may look to move on to progress his career and Spurs may well prove to be the perfect destination.

Transfer reporter Dean Jones believes Spurs could reignite their interest in Maddison further down the line.

Jones told Givemesport: “He’s a great player and he will have a decision to make over his future at the end of this season, I think.

Maddison gives little away

“Tottenham do like him but they were not given any encouragement that he would be available for anyone to buy. So it was felt they had enough to get by for now.”

Maddison gave little away in an interview with Sky Sports. Asked about the talk of an exit in the summer, he said: “After it shuts, I think there is a bit of a sigh of relief, especially some of the staff at football clubs.”

Tottenham though seem sure to keep tabs on the player, who was ignored again by England boss Gareth Southgate.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Spurs have “excellent relations” with Maddison’s agent. And a more aggressive approach from Spurs in the future could well see them get a lot closer to landing Maddison.

Leicester’s current predicament also means they already have the fear of relegation hanging over them. One point from seven games has left them rock-bottom of the Premier League and a drop into the Championship would see Maddison, among others, more than likely leave.