£70m man yet to score or assist this season, amid reports Arsenal bid for him over the summer

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Over the summer, Arsenal made attempts to bring Leicester playmaker James Maddison to the Emirates Stadium.

According to Football London, the Gunners made a player-plus-cash bid for the England international, which was rejected.

Leicester wanted £70m for their No.10.

Sky Sports even claimed that Maddison wanted to join Arsenal.

However, Mikel Arteta will probably be glad a move never materialised after the 24-year-old’s start to the season for Leicester.

How has James Maddison performed?

It’s safe to say the ex-Norwich maestro could’ve done better.

In six appearances so far this season, Maddison is yet to either score a goal or assist one for his teammates.

He is also yet to achieve higher than a 6.64 rating on WhoScored, which isn’t the greatest in all honesty.

In fairness, Leicester haven’t exactly been flying. Brendan Rodgers has overseen two wins and two defeats in four Premier League outings so far.

Perhaps when the Foxes pick up a bit of form, so too will Maddison.

Martin Ødegaard a much better purchase

In our view, Martin Ødegaard for £30m was a much better purchase than Maddison would’ve been at £70m – Leicester’s asking price.

For £40m less, Arsenal have obtained a player with two years on Maddison to develop, as well as one who can boast 33 international caps.

Ødegaard also has Champions League experience, and is captain of Norway.

His ceiling is far higher than Maddison’s is – in our view – and he was absolutely a much better purchase.

Edu has certainly made his mistakes, but he deserves a pat on the back for this one.