(Football news) Having rejected the first offer of £40m, Newcastle United have made a second bid for Leicester City’s James Maddison, believed to be in the region of £40m to £50m. Having missed out on Hugo Ekitike who joined Paris Saint-Germain from Reims, Magpies manager Eddie Howe is looking to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. However, signing Maddison would be far from straightforward as the England international has two years remaining on his contract and might not want to go to St. James’ Park.

As things stand, former Burnley striker Chris Wood is the only forward that has been signed by Newcastle’s new owners. The club have already signed defenders Sven Botman and Matt Targett as well as goalkeeper Nick Pope. Backed by a Saudi based consortium, Newcastle don’t lack the finances and are looking for a major overhaul in order to become a force in England and compete against the big teams. A loan move for Timo Werner is also being considered while one or two attackers could be signed before the end of this month. With Chelsea having signed Sterling, a move for Werner could be a realistic possibility as long as the German can agree personal terms with Newcastle.

Leicester believe that Maddison’s valuation is closer to £60m and if a deal is struck between the two clubs, he will become Newcastle United’s most expensive signing in history, eclipsing the £40m that was paid to Hoffenheim for Joelinton in July 2019. Maddison scored 18 goals and provided 12 assists in 53 appearances for Leicester last season and is considered a key player by manager Brendan Rogers. The club are yet to make a signing this transfer window and will be required to sell players in order to overhaul their squad.

Speaking about Maddison, Rogers said “There is obviously, within the club, a financial situation which isn't ideal in terms of wanting to do business. It doesn't mean we will be exploited and we don't want to be losing our best players. You don't want to lose your best players and then not be able to bring any in. That doesn't stack up. With James, he is looking the best he has in my time here. He is a joy to work with. I love him as a young guy, seeing him grow from when I first came in to a 25-year-old father. He is really pivotal to us. There is no way I would want to sell him."

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