Newcastle United are interested in signing Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva this summer, according to the Northern Echo.
The newspaper claims that the newly-promoted Premier League side have inquired about the availability of the 30-year-old Brazilian.
It is reported that manager Rafa Benitez is looking to add more midfield options to the squad ahead of their return to the English top flight next season.
The Echo claims that the Benitez is keen to sign an experienced midfielder in order to provide the back four with extra protection and he believes that the Brazilian is the perfect man for the job.
Lucas has reportedly been linked with a return to his native Brazil but his wages are likely to be a stumbling block.
The report also claims that owner Mike Ashley is willing to sanction the move despite previously ruling out signing any player in their 30s.
Benitez was the man who introduced Lucas to the Premier League during his spell as Liverpool manager when he signed the Brazilian from Gremio in the 2007 summer transfer window.
Under manager Jurgen Klopp, the midfielder has been unable to solidify a regular place in the team as he only made 12 Premier League starts last season.
He has been told that he can leave in the summer as he’s not part of Klopp’s long-term plans.
Lucas’ current contract at Anfield is the subject of discussion with some sources claiming it runs out this summer, but James Pearce from the Liverpool Echo saying he has another year to run.