Newcastle United are ready to make a swoop for Manchester City goalkeeper Willy Caballero if their move for Napoli ace Pepe Reina falls through, according to a Northern Echo report.
The newspaper claims the Toon are not willing to pay between £4-5million for Reina, who is 34 and only has a year left on his deal at Napoli.
However, it is said they are ready to stump up his £65,000-a-week wages, if an agreement with Napoli can be reached.
The report claims Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez is waiting to see how negotiations with Napoli unfold before deciding whether or not to make an offer for Caballero.
Caballero’s contract at the Etihad is up at the end of this month so he could be signed on a free transfer this summer, providing a cheaper option for the Magpies.
It is said a move for the 35-year-old Argentine is being considered, but Reina is still Benitez’s first choice.
The Spanish boss is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of the club’s return to the Premier League, and he has highlighted the position between the sticks as an area for improvement.
Caballero arrived at City from Malaga for £6.8million in the summer of 2014, and he has since made 48 appearances in all competitions for the club.
He performed reasonably well when called upon by Citizens manager Pep Guardiola this season, playing 27 league and cup games, keeping 10 clean sheets.
However, Guardiola has recently completed the £34million signing of Brazilian keeper Ederson, who is likely to be installed as first choice.