Big James Maddison update that could impact Newcastle United and Arsenal’s summer transfer plans

Leicester City have opened contract talks with James Maddison as they look to avoid the prospect of a summer sale. The England international is approaching the final 12 months of his contract, which could force the Foxes to either cash-in, or risk losing him for nothing.

Newcastle United had two bids - the highest being £40million - rejected last summer. Eddie Howe’s side did not push to sign Maddison last month, although that could be revisited at the end of the campaign. Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, meanwhile, are also credited with an interest.

Maddison joined Leicester in 2018 for £20m from Norwich City and has been one of the club’s key stars ever since. His stock has been high this season after earning a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England World Cup squad.

The 26-year-old’s contribution to Brendan Rodgers’ side has been invaluable in 2022-23. He’s scored nine goals and registered four assists in the Premier League. Tellingly, in the four league games Maddison missed after the season restart, Leicester lost - including a 3-0 home defeat against the Magpies.

Leicester are determined to ensure the former Aberdeen loanee stays beyond this season, and according to the Daily Telegraph, are now “ramping up” talks over a new deal.

Speaking after Saturday’s 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, Rodgers said: “I think he knows how much he’s loved and the impact he’s had here. It’s just going to be about him and where he sees the next steps of his career. That’s nothing against the club or against anyone, he’s probably a player that wants to play at the very highest level and he’s showing he can do that.

“He’s a top, top player but in the meantime we’re not taking anything away from him, he’s very committed. You see him, he led them out, his chest was out and he absolutely loved it, it was right up his street.”