Everton must consider £45 million English playmaker to solve creativity issues

James Maddison capped off an incredible season for Leicester City where he propelled his team to an eighth place finish in the premier league. The English attacking midfielder was a gem for the foxes and Everton should keep a close eye on him should he become available this summer.

Earlier this summer, a report from The Mirror suggested that Leicester are open to selling James Maddison but it certainly would not be their priority. The young Englishman was just nominated as the player of the year for Leicester and he just turned 25 back in November. Despite how talented of a player Maddison is, Leicester might just think that right now is the prime time to cash in on Maddison.

Everton have been in the mix for a plethora of midfielders lately and Maddison would fit the mould perfectly. During the most recent Premier League season, Maddison smashed 12 goals past the keeper and created eight more through his adept passing and exemplary vision.

That puts the young lad just outside the top ten in the assist category for the season and proves he has what it takes to be an elite playmaker in this league. Kevin De Bruyne, Paul Pogba, and Harry Kane were among the stars within one assist of Maddison so his potential is off the charts.

James Maddison could be the creator that Everton needs

When James Rodriguez and Lucas Digne were in the side, the Toffees did not have to worry much about creating goals either through the centre or through the flanks. Rodriguez’s imagination and immaculate vision did the job from the middle of the park meanwhile, Digne’s crosses and aggressive attacking style made sure that there was plenty of service for the strikers.

Since their departures, Everton have struggled to create goals and provide service to the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.

It is almost certain that either Richarlison or Calvert-Lewin will be sold in order to fund the transfers as the Toffees walk on a tight rope in terms of finances. An elegant playmaker such as Maddison could be the missing piece to the puzzle that brings new life back to Merseyside.

Last season, Leicester City asked upwards of £70 million for Maddison’s services which made it almost impossible for any side to sign the Englishman. His market value stands at £45 million as per Transfermarkt which means Everton will have to make substantial sales before even thinking to spend that kind of an amount. Maddison is only going to improve with time and don’t be surprised if he puts on a spectacular showing in the World Cup.

Gareth Southgate has been hesitant to include the Leicester star in his national team squad but Maddison has proved he is worthy of an invite and it would be ridiculous not to include him in Qatar.

Signing Maddison would certainly be a stretch for the toffees but it would be a big step in the right direction. Do you think Frank Lampard can pull it off?

Should Everton make a push to sign James Maddison?