Arsenal could pull off a move for £70m-rated James Maddison with a straight cash deal, claims Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
The Gunners have identified the Englishman as a potential target to fill the creative void in their midfield. With the new Premier League season just a week away from commencing, the club have ramped up their pursuit for a playmaker.
As per reports earlier this week, the 24-year-old is at the ‘top of the list’ for the north Londoners, but the only stumbling block in the deal is the massive price tag. They have also offered four players in an attempt to lower the transfer fee.
However, the Foxes are only interested in a cash deal and are under no pressure to sell the England international, as his current contract does not expire until 2024.
According to Dharmesh Sheth, Maddison is open to a switch to Emirates. The midfielder is also rated highly by the club. While his current valuation is very high for Arsenal, Sheth did not rule out the possibility of a straight cash deal.
The Journalist suggested the north London club could generate funds through player sales. He claimed Joe Willock and Reiss Nelson are the players on the chopping blocks to fund a transfer for Leicester man.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the journalist said:
“Arsenal remain very interested in doing a deal for the Leicester City attacking midfielder, James Maddison. One source has told me is that Maddison would be open to the idea – the valuation could be as high as £70 million, which would probably be unrealistic as far as Arsenal are concerned.”
“A straight cash deal whilst difficult, it’s not impossible. Although, it would rely on Arsenal having to generate funds from elsewhere in their squad. We do know that Joe Willock is of interest to Newcastle. Reiss Nelson, Crystal Palace are interested in him.”
“If they can start getting funds and freeing up wages, within that squad, you never know, this potential could be a goer.”
Arsenal Fever View:
It is reported that Maddison is open to a move to Arsenal. This shows the Gunners can still attract quality players despite the lack of European football. Since the player is interested in the transfer, agreeing on personal terms shouldn’t be a cumbersome task.
Thomas Partey’s injury could be a catalyst in this deal. The Ghana international suffered an ankle injury in Arsenal’s clash against Chelsea. While the exact length of his absence is unknown, it is likely he will miss the opening few weeks of the new campaign. Maddison can be a potential replacement for him and could be deployed further up the pitch as the season progresses.
The Gunners face Chelsea and Manchester City within a span of two weeks during the opening month of the Premier League. A positive result from these games can boost the morale of the team and help them kickstart the season on a high.
He is, undoubtedly, one of the best playmakers in the league. If Arsenal can muster up the transfer fee demanded by Leicester, then they will have an immensely talented player at their disposal who possesses the key to unlock defenses for years to come.
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