While only three transfer windows – all of which occurred under very different circumstances – do not provide a large sample size, one recruitment trait has emerged at Newcastle since the takeover.
Though many observers expected the club to make rash superstar signings during the PIF era, their approach has been far more measured. They are clearly willing to wait when it comes to making the necessary changes.
After all, Sven Botman was initially targeted during the January transfer window in 2022, but he eventually arrived around a half-year later after Newcastle were initially denied their pursuit of the Dutchman. Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon was a target last summer but finally signed earlier this year.
When Newcastle wants a player, it’s clear that they’re willing to wait.
So it’s not surprising that James Maddison has been linked with a move to St James’ Park.
According to talkSPORT, Newcastle made a bid for the England international last summer, but Leicester held firm and kept their £60 million-rated star man.
Newcastle, on the other hand, could be in a much better position this time. The 26-year-old will not only have a year left on his contract when the transfer window opens, but Leicester will also need to raise funds.
The Foxes announced a £92 million loss for the 2021-22 season, and this summer represents the final opportunity to sell Maddison for anything close to his asking price.
Sporting director Dan Ashworth is said to be leading the chase for his signature, but he may face competition from Tottenham, and a new bid is expected.
Maddison is almost certainly nearing the end of his career at Leicester.
With Brendan Rodgers’ side struggling near the bottom of the Premier League, they are unlikely to keep Maddison long term.
The fact that he has allowed his contract to lapse to this point says a lot about where he sees his future. The Newcastle project is certainly an exciting one to consider, despite the fact that a number of top clubs have been linked.
Newcastle‘s patience has proven to be a virtue during the PIF era. If they can get Maddison this summer, possibly at a lower cost given his contractual situation, it will be the best example of that yet.
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