James Maddison backed to seal move to Newcastle United after source's 'huge' update - pundit
Frank McAvennie has backed James Maddison to leave Leicester City and join Newcastle United.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former West Ham striker said Maddison needs to leave Leicester if he has any hope of getting into the England team for the World Cup.
On 24 September, sources told this site that Newcastle have set their sights on a move for the 25-year-old in January.
The Magpies failed to land the midfielder in the summer after tabling offers worth up to £50million.
Leicester are holding firm on their £60million valuation of Maddison.
His current deal at the King Power stadium is due to expire in 2024.
On 29 September, sources told Football Insider that Maddison is keen on a move to Tottenham, despite interest from Eddie Howe's side.
The midfielder was left out of Gareth Southgate's 28-man England squad in their final international fixtures before the World Cup in Qatar.
When asked by Football Insider if Maddison would be a welcome addition at St. James' Park, McAvennie said: "He's probably thinking to himself, ‘I need to go, I need to get in to that England team’.
"Why he’s not in the England team baffles me. He’s a shining light in a damp squid at Leicester. He’s the one shining every week. That’ll be Gareth Southgate’s downfall because he’s not picking all this talent.
"It’s a shame but I think Maddison is a huge player."