Transfer Story:
Riyad Mahrez’s stay at Leicester City has been clouded in uncertainty in the last couple of seasons as the Algerian has been linked with a move away from the club numerous times since the trophy-winning season for the Foxes. Even in the January transfer window, Mahrez was extremely close to joining Manchester City but the deal fell through in the final stages, as City weren’t ready to match Leicester’s asking price.
However, if Mahrez was to leave this summer, it would leave a huge void to fill for the Foxes and Leicester should ensure that they try their best to replace Mahrez in the best way possible. Accordingly, a report in the Sun states that Leicester are looking to bring in James Maddison from Norwich City at the end of the current season. Maddison has attracted a lot of attention due to his stupendous performances on the field and this rumour might well carry some weight after all.
Maddison: Potential to shine amongst the best
Primarily a central attacking midfielder, Maddison has been clinical in that role for Norwich this season. He possesses brilliant technique on the ball, has a silky touch and good close-control. His ability to muster space with some intelligent movement and positioning around the box makes it difficult to mark him during the game. Maddison can pick out a couple of precise passes with his wonderful vision every game, and is adept at playing through-balls, lobbed deliveries and low crosses whilst shifting wider. Maddison is an equally safe finisher and makes good use of his positioning inside the box, as well as his long-range shooting ability to score goals regularly.
Overall, the lad is as good a goal-scorer as he is a playmaker. He has scored 14 goals in 39 appearances in the Championship and has also created a commendable 104 goal-scoring chances. Eight of those have resulted in assists, and that goes on to underline his productivity in the attacking aspect of the game. Defensively too, Maddison has won 56% of his defensive duels. He has completed 67% successful take-ons and wins many fouls in and around the penalty box.
Should Leicester make a move?
Even if Mahrez doesn’t leave Leicester, the acquisition of James Maddison would be a really shrewd move. The player deserves to play in a top-tier club and Leicester will provide him with the perfect opportunity. His performances have been inspiring and attractive enough to catch attention and Leicester will have to act quickly to get this deal done. Maddison will bring in a new creative outlet for this Leicester team, which has been heavily reliant on Riyad Mahrez to create goal-scoring opportunities. He provides versatility too as Maddison can play behind the striker, on the right wing as well as in the central midfield. Needless to say, Leicester would land a gem if Maddison signs for them!
Stats Courtesy: Squawka
