James Maddison to Newcastle: Alan Shearer backed Leicester star back in 2018

Back in 2018, Alan Shearer backed James Maddison as having the ability to live up to a big transfer fee amid the Leicester City star’s current links with Newcastle United.

What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle will continue talks with the Foxes over a move for a move for the 25-year-old.

There have been reports of bids worth around £35m–£40m and, no matter the actual value of the offer, it is believed to have been rejected.

So, given Newcastle are looking to maintain contact over a potential deal, it seems feasible to suggest Maddison could cost a club-record fee should he arrive at St James’ Park. While Leicester are thought to want £60m (a price Newcastle reportedly won’t go near), pretty much anything above the offer already rejected would rival the fees paid out on Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes.

As it stands, Transfermarkt data notes that Joelinton remains Newcastle’s record transfer. While the Brazilian has established himself as a cult-hero these days, few would doubt the struggles he initially endured following his big move.

Back in 2018, however, Alan Shearer backed Maddison as having the quality to live up to a big price tag following his £25m move to Leicester from Norwich.

What did Shearer say about Maddison?

Speaking to the Premier League’s official website in August 2018, the Newcastle legend said: “I always looked at the point that if someone is prepared to pay that amount of money for you then that should in itself give you confidence and belief that you belong on the big stage.

“It’s a huge fee for him. If he’s not fazed by that, if he can take that in the right way and have the confidence to go out and believe he has the ability to fulfil that potential, then he’s a goalscoring midfielder and he should be a good addition to that Leicester squad.”

Was Shearer right?

Absolutely.

While international recognition might continue to elude Maddison, his numbers have been hugely impressive.

In 170 games for Leicester, the former Norwich youngster has scored 45 goals while registering 32 assists. Even during a difficult season for the club last time out, the 25-year-old still managed to finish within the top 11 Premier League scorers (12), while only nine players registered more than his 8 assists.

An FA Cup winner in 2021, few would argue against Maddison proving worth the money in the East Midlands.

If Newcastle can land him, he’d come with a track record of living up to big price tags.