Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers has yet again been quizzed on the future of his star players amid Newcastle United interest in James Maddison. Captain and long-serving goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel left the Foxes after 11 years this week and more big names are linked with moves away.
ChronicleLive understands Newcastle United have seen two approaches for James Maddison knocked back and Chelsea are showing interest in Wesley Fofana. The Magpies' bids were short of Leicester's reported £60million valuation for the midfielder.
The 2016 Premier League champions are the only side in the division yet to sign a first-team player this summer. Rodgers has previously spoken about needing to “balance the books” if new signings are to arrive.
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A third approach for Maddison has not been ruled out as Toon chiefs desperately fight for a breakthrough in the transfer market. Eddie Howe has revealed his desire to sign “one or two” more before the window slams shut on September 1 - with attacking reinforcements prioritised.
Speaking to the media ahead of their season opener against Brentford, Rodgers sounded unconvincing when asked about possible outgoings. The Leicester boss insisted his focus remains solely on managing the team.
“I hope not (whether Maddison or Fofana leave),” he said. “These players are not for sale. We need to move players out but it’s not getting rid of everyone and certainly not our best assets.
“It’s something the club are very strong on. James and Wesley are training very well and working hard for our game on Sunday. That’s (deciding who leaves) down to the club. For me, I concentrate on football.”
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