Ex-Arsenal star Paul Merson believes Newcastle should revive their interest in Leicester City playmaker James Maddison.

The Magpies did try to snap up the England international last year, but they weren’t willing to match the Foxes’ £60m asking price. However, Merson feels that the midfielder should be a priority signing this summer, above the likes of flashier names such as Neymar and Eden Hazard:

“Maddison is a top-quality player who I’m a huge fan of – I think he’d be a fantastic signing for Newcastle. He’d be a much better signing for them than the likes of Neymar and Hazard if you think about their long-term project over four or five seasons.”

Former Chelsea forward Hazard was linked with the club back in January but you would have to think that, with his recent injury record, Newcastle won’t consider taking a risk on him. Neymar is unlikely to be an option for other reasons.

Maddison seems to be an ideal fit. The Magpies have struggled to create goals this season, and he would certainly offer the firepower that the club have been looking for. The 26-year-old has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 19 Premier League appearances this season.