Brendan Rodgers expects Newcastle to splash the cash again in January but says they will be wasting their time targeting James Maddison.
Mega rich Saudi-owned Newcastle, who are third, tried to sign Leicester ’s England ace Maddison in the summer with two offers totalling up to £50million. But Leicester snubbed them and intend to hold firm when the transfer window re-opens.
Ahead of hosting Newcastle on Boxing Day, City boss Rodgers assessed: “They 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.”
Maddison will only have a year left on his contract at the King Power Stadium in the summer. But Rodgers insists the Thai-owned club are not under pressure to cash in on the ace, who has had a knee injury.
Asked if he expected Maddison to remain with the Foxes, Rodgers added: “Yes, absolutely, the key focus at the moment is getting him fit. Getting him out on to 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.”
Maddison went with England to Qatar but the star, who has seven goals and four assists this season in the Premier League, did not play a single minute for Gareth Southgate’s side.
Rodgers has since held a “debrief” with Maddison following his return and insists he is not bitter.
He assessed: “When he went out there he had an issue, but he worked himself back in training, so he was available for the latter stages of the World Cup. He was really positive about everything.
“He had a real taste of where he wants to be - and knows the work needed to be there. There was no negativity at all, he understood his role - if he wasn’t playing, he had to be a good team player.
“The England staff could see him over a prolonged period and see the maturity that he has now. I’m sure he was good for the group spirit as well.”
