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John Gibson

Newcastle United must address ambition in James Maddison pursuit to meet Leicester City demand

All of a sudden with the countdown to a spanking new season quickening the pulses Newcastle United are apparently operating in Big League territory. Having been dormant for a short while in the transfer market they are now being displayed as serious cheque book contenders for no less than five top Premier League stars.

Perhaps the most eye-catching move this week has been a second bid of £45m, which would be a club record, for Leicester's playmaker and goal taker James Maddison. Significantly Maddison is said to be open to joining an intriguing building process perhaps believing that having won the Premier League title and FA Cup Leicester's days of fairytale are over while Newcastle's may just be beginning.

Long term target Jack Harrison was the subject of another offer - this time £33.5m - which Leeds turned down though something a lot closer to £40m could probably open a locked door. At the same time United have been strongly linked with a loan move for Chelsea's German international striker Timo Werner, granting Burnley's Maxwel Cornet his wish to remain in the Premier League, and toying with the thought of a plunge for Arsenal's wide attacker Pepe who cost the Gunners a hefty club record £72m back in 2019.

READ MORE: Leicester's goalkeeper stance emerges amid Martin Dubravka interest and James Maddison bid

It's all intriguing because United definitely need more strength, creativity, and firepower in attacking areas. Maybe Maddison is not a centre-forward or a wide raiding winger which are positions United have been targeting but he scored an incredible 18 goals and provided 12 assists in 53 appearances in all competitions last campaign and, brother, could the Mags do with such dual figures being provided by a single player.

I admire the pureness of Maddison's vision and if United can overcome late interest which must come from within the so-called Big Six if it becomes apparent Leicester are selling then his arrival would genuinely excite me proving Newcastle are ready to make the next step up.

Maybe the Foxes are strapped for cash but in my opinion Maddison is worth more than £45m and United may have to recognise that or forget their ambition.

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