Report explains why Spurs are ‘gaining in confidence’ in Maddison pursuit

The Daily Mail have claimed that Tottenham Hotspur are gaining in confidence that they will win the race for James Maddison as Newcastle are focused on other targets.

We previously relayed a report from The Guardian, which claimed that Newcastle are prioritising a deal for AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali, with the Magpies said to be close to concluding a transfer worth €70m (£60.2m) plus add-ons for Italy international.

With Eddie Howe’s men focused on a deal for the 23-year-old, it was explained that the path could clear for Spurs to snap up Maddison, with the publication asserting that the North London club are expected to launch an offer for the England star.

Spurs are gaining confidence in the Maddison race

The same information has now been backed up by The Mail, who state that Howe has identified Tonali as his ‘top summer target’.

It is revealed that even though the Foxes turned down Tottenham’s joint £50m bid for Maddison and Harvey Barnes last week, the Lilywhites are now gaining confidence that they will get a deal for the 26-year-old over the line.

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I suspect that Postecoglou would have asked the Tottenham hierarchy to sign an attacking midfielder before the start of pre-season.

So, just as with their Raya pursuit, Spurs might not hesitate to swiftly turn their attention to other alternatives should Leicester City be reluctant to lower their valuation of the England international.