Former Blackburn Rovers striker Chris Sutton is puzzled over Newcastle United’s attempt to sign James Maddison. Leicester City have rejected two bids for the 25-year-old, with the Magpies falling short of a reported £60million asking price.
Newcastle are yet to make a third offer for Maddison but Foxes' boss Brendan Rodgers has admitted they could be helpless to keep the midfielder should Toon chiefs increase their bid. Luring a star player from one of their direct rivals would be a statement of intent from United.
Eddie Howe has made no secret of his desire to bolster his attacking options before the window slams shut on September 1. So far, the focus has been on strengthening the backline, with Nick Pope, Matt Targett and Sven Botman arriving this summer.
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However, not everyone is impressed by Newcastle’s transfer approach. Ex-Celtic striker Sutton - who bagged five goals against the Magpies in his career - has questioned the decision to wait until the start of the campaign to make a move.
"They are trying to get James Maddison from Leicester," Sutton told BBC Sport, "but I don't quite understand why they have left it so late before the start of the season to go for him. We will have to wait and see how that one pans out."
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