Leicester City reject Newcastle’s £40m bid for James Maddison

Leicester City have rejected a £40m bid for James Maddison from Newcastle United.

Eddie Howe has identified Maddison as a key target this summer and Newcastle are weighing up whether to test Leicester’s resolve by making an improved bid for the attacking midfielder.

Leicester are the only team in the Premier League who are yet to make a senior signing this summer. Brendan Rodgers’s transfer budget depends on sales, so Newcastle’s pursuit of Maddison may be successful if they offer more than £40m.

Maddison has proved an excellent buy for Leicester since joining them from Norwich City for £25m in 2018. He has sharpened his game under the guidance of Rodgers and scored 18 goals in all competitions last season. He has been capped by England but his form is yet to attract the attention of the Premier League’s big six.

Newcastle are keen to back Howe before the start of the new season. They have already strengthened their squad with the signings of Nick Pope, Sven Botman and Matt Targett.