Tottenham 'long-term admirers' of £60m England star at Hotspur Way

Tottenham Hotspur are ‘long-term admirers’ of James Maddison and he will have caught Antonio Conte’s eye during the north Londoners’ clash with Leicester City last weekend, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Although Spurs spent more than £150million on securing reinforcements during the summer, head coach Conte will be given the opportunity to strengthen his squad with further fresh faces when the transfer window reopens in January.

Maddison will not be adding to his one England cap during the current international break, having been overlooked by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate, but he has enjoyed a productive start to the season.

The 25-year-old has found the back of the net three times and registered an assist in seven appearances so far.

Maddison’s latest goal came during Leicester’s 6-2 defeat to Tottenham last weekend, with an impressive hooked effort finding its way beyond Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

It is understood that the capital club considered signing the playmaker before the new season got underway last month, but a move failed to come to fruition.

Newcastle United are also admirers of Maddison and respected Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed the Magpies had two big-money bids pushed back during the transfer window.

O’Rourke believes Maddison has started the season well despite current employers Leicester being at the foot of the Premier League table.

The journalist understands Tottenham have been coveting the former Norwich City man for some time and has refused to rule out a January bid.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “Despite Leicester’s problems this season, I think Maddison’s probably been their standout performer so far.

“He got a good goal against Tottenham and probably looked