Peterborough United’s attacking midfielder Marcus Maddison was linked heavily with Sunderland in the summer, but nothing materialised in the end. Various reports (Derbyshire Live) are now emerging that Championship clubs like Derby County are interested in the playmaker who has been performing brilliantly for the Posh.
The playmaker is in the final year of his deal and Sunderland’s Head of football operations, Richard Hill meanwhile indicated (Sunderland Echo) a few weeks ago that Sunderland might revisit the deal next summer when Maddison becomes a free agent.
However, it could be too late by then, and we think that Sunderland should make a move for the playmaker in January. It has been widely reported that the player has a £2.5m release clause and the Black Cats should look to trigger it instead of waiting on the midfielder to sign him on a cheaper deal.
Why will Maddison be worth the price?
The attacking midfielder has taken over at the ABAX Stadium by storm, and he has been the creator in chief for them ever since his arrival in 2014. The player has played for the likes of Northampton Town, Newcastle United, Barnsley, Shrewsbury, Scunthorpe and Wigan but it is at Peterborough United where he realised his true potential.
The English player managed ten goals and 23 assists in all competitions last season. In the 2017-18 campaign, he managed another 23 assists to go with his 12 goals. This season again he is ruling the roost in terms of attacking contributions as he has five goals and six assists to his name in eight appearances so far.
Therefore, Maddison’s performance is more than just a flash in the pan as he has been showing his worth for a few years now. The English player possesses decent pace and dribbling skill but what makes him stand out is his ability to make the right decision in the final third. Moreover, he is a versatile player as he can slot in on the right flank as well when required.
Can Sunderland Get Him?
Sunderland though will need to be in a good position in the table to lure someone like Maddison in January as the player would probably look to move up a division after thriving in the League One. Sunderland might be the second favourites to land him if certain Championship clubs really become interested in him. However, the player has a release clause which can be triggered by the Black Cats, and Jack Ross should go ahead and sign the player for £2.5m.