Newcastle United could revisit a move for James Maddison in January if they cannot sign the Leicester City star now, believes journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Tyneside club want Maddison but have already had two bids rejected for him.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Maddison?

According to The Guardian, Newcastle have had a second offer for Maddison turned down by Leicester.

The same outlet states that it was worth £50m but the Foxes want £60m and are reluctant to sell the attacking midfielder this summer.

Brendan Rodgers is facing a real battle to keep hold of a host of his star players, with Wesley Fofana also attracting interest from another Premier League club.

Chelsea are thought to be keen on signing the Frenchman, but again, like with Maddison, Leicester do not want to sell.

What has O'Rourke said about Maddison to Newcastle?

If Newcastle fail to land Maddison in this transfer window, then O'Rourke can see them returning for the Englishman in January.

When asked if the Magpies could revisit a deal for Maddison in the new year, the journalist told GIVEMESPORT: "Yeah, that's a possibility depending on how the season is going for the two clubs. If Leicester aren't having a great season and Newcastle are doing well, I'm sure it's something that they would definitely look to revisit.

"They obviously had a successful January transfer window last season when they brought in a number of players, which helped improve their fortunes."

Should Newcastle pay £60m for Maddison?

Given that their last bid was £50m, if Eddie Howe really wants him, then Newcastle might as well stump up the extra £10m.

Whether Maddison is actually worth £50m, let alone £60m, is up for debate, but he is certainly a good player.

The 2021/22 campaign was a productive one for the England international, who scored 12 goals and provided eight assists in 35 Premier League outings.

He also averaged the most key passes in Leicester's squad, playing 1.4 per game (via WhoScored). Ultimately, it is not hard to see why Howe wants him at St James' Park.

There is quite clearly a difference in valuation between Newcastle and Leicester, though, and it remains to be seen if the Magpies are willing to return with a bid closer to the Foxes' £60m price tag. If they do, then it probably then becomes about convincing Maddison to make that switch to Tyneside.