By Noel Whelan

27th Sep, 2022 | 9:43am

Newcastle United could now seal cut-price James Maddison deal after 'brilliant' source reveal - pundit

Noel Whelan has backed Newcastle United to sign James Maddison in January amid Leicester City’s ongoing struggles.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Foxes will need to “capitalise” on the 25-year-old’s value as he enters the final 18 months of his deal.

Football Insider revealed on Saturday (24 September) that Newcastle United are planning to submit a new Maddison bid in January after failing with a £50million offer in the summer window.

Leicester held firm on their £60million valuation but the midfielder’s contract is continuing to run down.

The Foxes sit bottom of the Premier League after seven games, picking up just one point.

Whelan suggested Maddison is the “missing piece of the puzzle” for Eddie Howe’s side.

He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I can definitely see it happening now with the start Leicester have had.

“He’s been very mature about it. He’s not kicked up a fuss, and I think Brendan Rodgers will appreciate that.

“He’s been putting in the performances and the effort – and you can see what a standout he is even if Leicester aren’t winning games.

“I can’t see them climbing too far up the league between now and January. With his contract running down, I think Leicester have got to capitalise on that.

“They need the money if they’re going to go out and buy players.

“He’d be a brilliant fit at Newcastle, I don’t think they have a player quite like him at the moment.

“He’s probably the missing piece of the puzzle which would give them the complete midfield.”

In other news, pundit claims Newcastle have agreed “free transfer” after new deal sealed.