An update has emerged on Newcastle United and their interest in James Maddison ahead of the January transfer window...

What's the word?

In a Q&A on The Athletic, journalist Chris Waugh has revealed that the Magpies remain keen on the English central midfielder as Eddie Howe eyes a renewed swoop for the gem.

The reporter has claimed that the club already have their eye on the next window with a view to improving their attack and the former Norwich City man is a player they are interested in signing, alongside the likes of Jack Harrison and Anthony Gordon.

This comes after the Magpies reportedly had two offers turned down by Leicester City during the summer transfer window, before ultimately failing to sign a winger or midfielder.

Big Miguel Almiron upgrade

Whilst Maddison is an attacking midfielder by trade, the Foxes gem has played out on the left and right wing during his time in the Premier League and could come in as a big upgrade on Miguel Almiron.

Newcastle do not play with an out-and-out no.10 in their 4-3-3 set-up and pushing the Englishman out on the right could allow him to play a significant role at the top end of the pitch, instead of being distracted by defensive duties in an eight role.

Almiron has, quite simply, not done enough in the final third since the start of last season. As an attacking player, the Paraguay international has offered very little as he has produced two goals and zero assists in his last 37 Premier League appearances for the Magpies.

The 28-year-old has averaged less than one chance created per game in that time, providing 0.7 key passes per match this term after managing 0.6 in 2021/22.

These statistics show that he does not offer much of a goal threat and lacks creativity out wide, which is why Maddison, who journalist Josh Bunting dubbed "unstoppable" on top form, could come in as a big upgrade on him as he excels in both of those areas.

The Leicester man enjoyed a stunning 2021/22 campaign in the Premier League as he racked up 12 goals and eight assists - creating 1.4 chances per outing. This season, he has scored three goals and provided one assist in six matches, whilst making 2.2 key passes per game.

Therefore, the £110k-per-week gem could win matches for Newcastle with his contributions in the final third, as he has proven himself to be a difference-maker at this level. Whereas, Almiron has proven that he does not have the quality to win games for the Toon on even a semi-regular basis.