Eddie Howe’s response to James Maddison question as Leicester City reject Newcastle United bids

Eddie Howe has once again refused to comment on the speculation surrounding Newcastle United’s interest in James Maddison.

The Magpies have had two bids rejected - believed to be around the £40million mark - by Leicester City in the last seven days.

Whether or not United launch a third offer remains to be seen as Howe looks to bolster his attacking options in the transfer market.

Asked about Maddison, Howe, speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier League opener versus Nottingham Forest, said: “I’m not going to talk about any individual player in respect to their club.

“We’re working hard to try and improve the squad.”

On the transfer front, Howe insists nothing has changed, although remains “very confident” of sealing new signings ahead of the deadline,

“No, not this week, nothing’s progressed any further,” Howe said.

“The situation has remained the same probably since our last signing. We’re working hard to try and add to the group.

“We’re active in the market and we’ll wait and see if we can add players before the window shuts.”

“There’s certainly no frustration aimed at the club, it’s circumstances surrounding.

“There are players who have decided to move elsewhere but that’s a delicate thing, it’s not always the other club.

“A whole host of things have to drop for you. It’s ever-moving thing, it’s always changing but I’m very confident we can do what we need to make the squad as strong as possible.”