Eddie Howe’s four-word response to Newcastle United’s James Maddison bid

Eddie Howe has once again refused to comment on players linked with a move to Newcastle United.

On Friday night, the Magpies head coach was asked about Burnley’s Maxwel Cornet amid his £17.5million release clause.

The Cornet speculation was heightened when he was left out of the Clarets’ squad that beat Huddersfield Town 1-0 in their Championship opener.

And today, a new name emerged.

Howe, after his side beat La Liga side Athletic Bilbao 2-1 at St James’ Park, was questioned on the reports surrounding James Maddison.

It’s been widely reported that United have had a bid in the region of £35million-£40m rejected by Leicester City.

But Howe, as ever, was in no mood to comment on other club’s players. He said: “A predictable answer, no.”

The Magpies rounded off their preparations for the new Premier League with goals from Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin clinching a tight victory.

Howe admits he wants a new signing in before the visit of Nottingham Forest a week today but “there is no guarantee”.

He said: “We’re trying, we’d love to add to the squad for Saturday’s game but there is no guarantee on it.”