Pundit suggests when James Maddison will sign for Newcastle United after source's £60m bid reveal
James Maddison will join Newcastle United when they make it into the Champions League.
That's according to former West Ham striker Frank McAvennie, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Maddison's future.
On 9 December, sources told this site that Leicester City have slapped a £60million price tag on the midfielder in an attempt to fend off Newcastle.
According to the Daily Mail (7 December), Eddie Howe admitted that FFP could limit the Magpies in the January transfer window.
It is believed that a deal for Maddison is now extremely unlikely given the price tag, but Howe is still said to be a great admirer of the 26-year-old.
The England international is out of contract at the King Power Stadium in the summer of 2024.
McAvennie suggested Maddison may not move until the north east giants are capable of winning the Champions League.
"He was sought after by a lot of clubs he is that good a player," he told Football Insider.
"He is in the England squad, he has been having a great season. Wherever he goes it will be a top club.
"He would do a job at Newcastle but I do not think it is the right time to go there. He will be looking to win Champions Leagues, I do not think that is there at Newcastle and will not be there for the next few years.
"I think Maddison will be at one of the top clubs, I think he is that good. If Newcastle were challenging for the Champions League spots then maybe. But they are not there as yet. "