Newcastle United have made contact with European heavyweights Real Madrid about signing goalkeeper Kiko Casilla, according to Don Balon.
The Spanish news outlet claims that Magpies boss Rafael Benitez has asked his former club Real about the possibility of signing the 31-year-old during the January transfer window.
It is understood that the La Liga club are on the brink of signing Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao, which could push Casilla further down the pecking order at the Bernabeu.
The report details that Newcastle will have to battle Spanish side Deportivo to secure the shot-stopper.
Casilla is currently the number two option at Real and has made 10 appearances across all competitions this season, which included two in the Champions League.
Good move for Newcastle?
Newcastle should certainly chase a new goalkeeper in the current transfer window and Casilla would be an exciting signing.
Both Karl Darlow and Rob Elliot are steady options in goal, but the North East club should be looking to improve such a crucial area of the pitch.
Casilla is an experienced goalkeeper that would be a real success at St James’ Park as he enters the prime of his career.
He has won back-to-back Champions League titles with Real and fans would surely be thrilled with pulling off this deal.
This Is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Benitez is surely going to be the crucial factor in this deal happening and the manager has the profile to attract top players to Newcastle.
However, swiping Real for the Magpies would be a big move for any player and the desire to play first-team football will come into it.
Casilla has played a secondary role behind Keylor Navas in the past two years and it’s unclear whether he would be willing to make a first switch to England.
This Is Futbol rating: 4/10