Brendan Rodgers has insisted James Maddison is staying put in the January transfer window. Newcastle United are just one week away from being allowed to recruit more players and bolster their European ambitions.
Last January, Toon chiefs took full advantage of their first opportunity to improve the squad. Five new arrivals joined the Magpies to help propel Eddie Howe’s men out of the relegation zone and up the Premier League.
Leicester City star Maddison - who has seven goals and four assists this season - is a player Newcastle desired once top-flight safety was secured. ChronicleLive understands two bids were rejected by the Foxes in August, believed to be in the region of £45million.
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With just 18 months remaining on his current deal, Leicester would need to sell their asset in January - providing he does not sign an extension - to optimise the value of any sale. London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are also reportedly chasing the England international.
However, ahead of the Magpies’ Boxing Day trip to the King Power Stadium, Leicester boss Rodgers has ruled out any outgoings next month. Despite this, the 49-year-old does expect Newcastle to be active in the market.
“Yes, absolutely (whether Maddison will be staying),” Rodgers told LeicestershireLive. “The key focus at the moment is getting him fit. Getting him out onto the field again. He’s someone I want to keep here.
“He’s a top player. But I’ve been given no indication that we have to do anything with James in January. My focus is on improving the squad - that’s what I want to do.
“They (Newcastle) have signed players who have improved the dynamic of the team. They’re trying to build something there, they’ll improve and get better. I’m sure they’ll strengthen their squad, and they’ll have the motivation to stay there.
“When you have good players, they’ll always be coveted by other teams - it’s a good sign. That’s okay, I’m confident those players will be here.”
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