Manchester City interested in signing Leicester midfielder James Maddison

Manchester City are considering making a move for Leicester playmaker James Maddison in the summer, according to reports, amid transfer interest from a host of clubs.

The 26-year-old England international has been the subject of heavy interest in recent months. Newcastle failed in their attempts to sign Maddison last summer, with bids of £40 and £45 million rejected by Brendan Rodgers' side.

Premier League leaders Arsenal were also interested at one stage, as were North London rivals Spurs, who registered a strong interest but were ultimately put off by Leicester's £70 million valuation.

And now, in a surprise turn of events, it appears Manchester City are interested in making a move for Maddison in the summer.

The Daily Mail claim that with Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva's future in the air, City have identified the attacking midfielder as an option.

Pep Guardiola wants more goals from those behind Erling Haaland and Maddison would certainly provide that impetus from attacking areas.

After performing admirably throughout Leicester's 2021/22 campaign, where he netted 18 goals in all competitions, the 26-year-old has scored seven times in 14 this season.

It should be noted that Maddison will have just 12 months to run on his £100,000 per-week contract at the King Power this summer.

Back in October, Pep Guardiola approached Maddison after City secured a 1-0 win against Leicester, and the pair spoke in great depth as they left the field.

It was a conversation that got people taking on social media.

But when asked what his conversation with Guardiola was about, the Foxes playmaker replied: "He was asking why we didn’t play like the last 15 minutes for the whole game.

"I think he realises it’s not as easy at that. But he’s a top manager with a top team so it’s always going to be tough."

Guardiola and Maddison deep in conversation at full-time... 👀

What was said here? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/iJxWciO0jT

— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) October 29, 2022

Guardiola is a fan of the England international. He called Maddison an "incredible player" in 2019 after City's 1-0 win over Leicester.

But would he be a good signing for the reigning Premier League champions?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.