Tottenham Hotspur's swift and strategic summer signings continue to impress, with reports now confirming a verbal agreement with Leicester City for midfielder James Maddison's transfer. According to insiders, including respected football journalist Fabrizio Romano, the agreement is valued around £40m.
This significant development in Tottenham's transfer activity emerged unexpectedly fast, catching fans off guard. Leicester's initial asking price was rumoured to be around £60m, but Tottenham appears to have successfully negotiated this down. It's suggested that a large chunk of the agreed fee would likely be paid upfront, possibly at Leicester's insistence.
The agreement would mark Tottenham's third acquisition of the transfer window, following deals for Dejan Kulusevski and recently confirmed first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vacario. All this action while June is not yet over signals a proactive approach from Spurs, a pleasing change for long-term fans accustomed to late-window scramble.
Tottenham are now closing in on James Maddison deal, here we go soon! Verbal agreement in place on £40m fee — final details on add ons/payment structure then… signed. ️ #THFC
Daniel Levy, on it with #LCFC.
Personal terms are 100% agreed.
Medical to be scheduled soon. pic.twitter.com/HruX2NMZJp — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 27, 2023
New manager Ange Postecoglou seems to be building his squad ahead of schedule, securing key targets even before preseason training kicks off in early July. This promising start, however, doesn't diminish the work that lies ahead.
In addition to Maddison, Tottenham remains engaged in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for centre back Edmond Tapsoba. Depending on the fate of Harry Kane, the Spurs might also be eyeing another forward.
Maddison, 26, has been on Tottenham's radar for a few seasons, and his addition would certainly bolster the team's midfield. Sources confirmed that talks have advanced significantly, although the final transfer fee details are still under negotiation.
Despite Leicester City's relegation last season, Maddison put up a strong performance, contributing 10 goals and nine assists from 30 league matches. His relegation plight has reportedly fueled his desire to continue his career in the top-flight, especially with Euro 2024 on the horizon.
Maddison, part of England's World Cup squad last year, was sidelined due to a knee issue and did not participate in the tournament. Having joined Leicester in 2018 after stints with Coventry City, Norwich City, and Aberdeen, his potential move to Tottenham could offer him the opportunity to further showcase his talent at the highest level.
