The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) Public Investment Fund (PIF) will reportedly now make James Maddison their top January target for Newcastle United.

The Lowdown: Failed summer move

Maddison was linked with a move to St. James’ Park throughout the summer transfer window, and they even reportedly had a bid rejected by Leicester City for the midfield maestro.

With the window now closed, clubs have to look to January if they want to strengthen their squad further ahead of the rest of the season, and it sounds like the chase for Maddison could well be reignited in the winter window.

The Latest: Top January target

Taking to Twitter, Magpies journalist for The Northern Echo Scott Wilson has revealed that the Tynesiders will now make Maddison their ‘number one January target’, adding that Eddie Howe ‘still wants’ a new attacking midfielder:

“#NUFC will make James Maddison their number one January target. Eddie Howe still wants an attacking-midfielder, and Maddison has entered final two years of current deal and was keen to move to Tyneside in the summer…”

The Verdict: Could be possible

Given Leicester’s poor start to the season, and the fact they are currently experiencing financial troubles, it is plausible that Maddison could be moved on in January for the right price.

Hailed as ‘amazing‘ last term by former top-flight goalkeeper Paddy Kenny, the Englishman recorded the most goal contributions of any Foxes player in the division, tallying an impressive 12 goals and eight assists from midfield (WhoScored).

This campaign, he already has two goals and one assist in the Premier League in a struggling side, and would complete a dangerous Toon midfield that could see him play alongside Brazilians Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.

Nonetheless, there are sure to be other clubs in for his signature, and so NUFC need to make sure that they are first in the race.