Ally McCoist has told talkSPORT (airing on 25/1; 06:27) that he is surprised Newcastle are not willing to pay more for James Maddison, despite reports that they are working on a deal for Anthony Gordon.
Gordon appears to be the first addition to Eddie Howe’s first-team squad this month. Everton is reportedly willing to let him go. And the Magpies are in talks to sign the 21-year-old.
According to Sky Sports, there is growing optimism that he will join Newcastle for around £40 million. Gordon has missed the last two days of training with the Toffees.
Gordon was superb for Everton last season. However, he has struggled to regain that form this time around. McCoist has thus suggested that Newcastle could do better.
On Wednesday, he was asked about the connections between Gordon and Newcastle. And he hinted that if he were Howe, he might be tempted to aim a little higher.
“Everton is in a battle. I’m not saying Anthony Gordon wouldn’t roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty. However, Everton’s priority is to remain in the Premier League. And they’ve got a real fight on their hands,” he told talkSPORT.
“If I’m Newcastle, if I’m Eddie Howe, I’m thinking about spending another £20 million on James Maddison.”
You can understand why McCoist believes Maddison would be a better target. Newcastle’s owners are extremely wealthy. And they have spent money in the last year. However, it is not as simple as that.
Newcastle’s previous business may have an impact on how much money they can spend this month. Meanwhile, there is no indication that Leicester would be willing to sell Maddison.
But Maddison has been ‘sensational’. This season, he has seven goals and four assists. In 147 Premier League appearances, he has scored 69 goals. And, at the age of 26, the attacking midfielder has plenty more to offer.
If a deal were possible, he would undoubtedly be the more interesting target. However, he appears unlikely to be the man Newcastle signs.
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