‘He’s very happy here’ – Rodgers responds to Maddison exit talk

James Holland
Brendan Rodgers James Maddison

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers says Arsenal have not submitted an official bid for midfielder James Maddison.

The 24-year-old is rumoured to be a top target for Arsenal this summer.

Reports have suggested that a player-plus-cash deal has been offered, although it seems that is news to Leicester.


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When asked about Maddison, Rodgers said: “I know he is very happy here and he wants to be here.

“If anything comes to the club, Jon Rudkin [director of football] would tell me straightaway and I would deal with it then, but there has been nothing that’s come my way.

“I’ve not been told anything to say [he won’t stay]. He is happy in training and he is working hard, and he is a talented, important member of the squad.

“He had his season disrupted by injury last year but hopefully this season he can show what a real top player he is.”

Maddison’s contract runs until June 2024, which puts Leicester in a commanding position.

They have no need to sell the England international and can also offer him European football in the upcoming campaign.

They have qualified for the Europa League after finishing fifth last term, which is more than can be said for Arsenal.

Leicester value Maddison at £70million, which is a price tag unlikely to be met by Arsenal.

Their previous attempts to sign him have failed to surpass £60m.

The Foxes also added to their trophy cabinet with a 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the FA Cup final back in May.

Maddison enjoyed another impressive season in 2020/21, registering 11 goals and ten assists in 42 games.

However, he missed seven Premier League matches due to knee and hip injuries.

His lack of fitness also ruled him out as a starter at Wembley. The playmaker came on as a substitute just minutes after Youri Tielemans’ goal, which proved to be the winner.

Maddison has the chance to start at Wembley on Saturday in search of more silverware.

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