There are positive signs in Arsenal’s negotiations for James Maddison, though he’s likely to cost £60m and there’s no breakthrough yet.

TheAFCBell report that Arsenal have held talks with Leicester City over a number of potential deal combinations for James Maddison, and though there’s no breakthrough yet, there are positive signs.

According to the report, Arsenal first enquired about a £50m transfer, but were told Leicester wanted at least £60m. The Gunners put forward a part-swap involving a player plus cash, but Leicester don’t see that option as realistic.

Instead, it looks like Arsenal will have to pay up the £60m if they want Maddison. On that front, the likely sale of Joe Willock to Newcastle United for £25m looks like a step in the right direction.

Arsenal are expected to step up their efforts for their number one target Maddison in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, Maddison is still playing a key role for his current club, starting in the Community Shield win over Manchester City. Leicester certainly aren’t going to be unhappy if they have to keep a 24-year-old midfielder who directly contributed to 20 goals last season.