Sky Sports News reporter Dharmesh Sheth feels that Tottenham Hotspur would have already made their move for James Maddison if they were seriously interested in the playmaker.
Back in April, it was reported that Spurs – as well as their north London rivals – were interested in acquiring Maddison, having both been long-term admirers of the 25-year-old as links have persisted all summer.
After the arrival of Djed Spence in north London, it was reported that Fabio Paratici would divert his attention to bringing in a creative player.
Meanwhile, FA registered intermediary Paul O’Keefe claimed that the Lilywhites had their sights set on Maddison, but Sheth is of the impression that Spurs won’t act on their interest unless there has been a change in strategy.
Speaking on the Last Word on Spurs podcast, he said: “You’d have to say that if Tottenham were really, really serious about going for James Maddison, given the way that they’ve done their business so far in this transfer window, for someone that would command such a high transfer fee as Maddison, would they not have gone for him already?
“Unless they’re now looking at the squad and thinking ‘look, second wave, let’s just go and try and get him’.
“At the moment, the information I’m getting is that there’s not that interest in Maddison just now.
“Look, we’ve still got three weeks left – that can change.”
TIF Thoughts on Maddison and Spurs…
In Antonio Conte’s preferred formation of a 3-4-2-1 during his time at Spurs, the creativity is supplied by his high and wide wing-backs, but if he were to revert to his patented 3-5-2 setup which saw him lead Inter to the Serie A title, Maddison could become a major asset.
Leicester City’s player of the year was directly involved in 30 goals last year, but with the Foxes seeking £60m for the ace attacker, it has perhaps scuppered any Spurs attempt to try and sign him, and it could be that it is a deal they decide to revisit late on in this window or even in the future.