Transfer Talk: Newcastle prepare third Maddison bid in January

Newcastle are ready to test Leicester’s resolve with a third bid for James Maddison in January.

The Magpies were keen on the midfielder, 25, during the summer but saw two approaches rejected — the second an offer of £45million.

They remain eager to add creativity to their side and will revive their interest in January, according to The Times.

With Maddison entering the final 18 months of his contract by then, they hope the Foxes will drop their asking price.

Having spent upwards of £200m on new signings since their takeover last October, goals remain an issue and they see Maddison as the ideal solution.

The Leicester ace is said to open to the switch to St James’ Park and feels it will help his England prospects, with Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier currently part of the Three Lions set-up.

One-cap international Maddison was once again overlooked by Gareth Southgate for England’s Nations League games against Italy and Germany despite some decent Premier League form.

Brendan Rodgers’ side remain rooted to the bottom of the league but the playmaker has managed three goals and an assist.

In other news

Leeds are preparing a new contract offer for Jack Harrison as Newcastle consider another £20m bid for the winger, according to Football Insider.

AC Milan are interested in Chelsea striker Armando Broja, 21, as they look to bring in a forward next summer, according to reports in Italy.

Reports in Spain say Liverpool have identified Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez, 21, as an alternative to Jude Bellingham if he moves elsewhere.