Following his impressive display this season, Arsenal are said to have marked Leicester’s James Maddison as a prime transfer target for the summer. The Englishman has played a massive part in Leicester’s success this season, scoring nine goals and providing three assists from 25 appearances in all competitions.
The 23-year-old has been linked with a move to Old Trafford as United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is ready to reinforce his midfield options by offering Jesse Lingard plus £45 million to sign the Leicester superb midfielder. This report has made Lingard employ the services of super-agent Mino Raiola.
Maddison joined the Foxes for around £20m from Norwich in 2018 and still has three-and-a-half years remaining on his current £50,000-a-week contract. But he could be offered more if he joins Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side next summer. He has also been in good form this season and has been at the heart of Brendan Rodgers’ side as they occupy the third spot on the league table and win a Champions League qualification.
The Leicester midfielder’s fine performances have unsurprisingly seen him linked with a move away from the King Power Stadium and United are hopeful that the midfielder can be lured to Old Trafford in the summer.
The midfielder is not close to signing a new long-term deal at the King Power Stadium with the Red Devils are ready to raid the club again after paying a similar £80m deal for Harry Maguire. Also, Man United chiefs are hoping that the defender can help persuade his former teammate to make the switch to Old Trafford in January.
According to Football Insider, Arsenal manager Arteta has shown interest in bringing the midfielder to the Emirates and is plotting a move later this year. However, the Gunners will have to compete with Manchester United and Manchester City, who are also extremely keen to sign the Leicester star.
Despite the recent speculation surrounding Maddison’s departure, Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers has insisted there is no chance of the youngster leaving the club this month. He has also warned United and other clubs interested in signing Maddison during the January transfer window to stay clear of the player.
“James is a very talented player and he will be here in January and beyond,’ he said.
“He’s a player we’re keen to keep here and help us on this journey over the next few years.
“James and his representatives are speaking with the club. These things take time but his level has not dropped. He is playing at a high level. There’s no pressure to sell and no need to sell.”
