Newcastle United have made an approach to Leicester City for their striker Islam Slimani, according to Sky Sports.
The news outlet claims on its live transfer blog (12:41pm, Tuesday) that the Magpies have made an attempt to sign the 29-year-old after their January target Daniel Sturrdige joined West Brom on loan.
It is understood that the Foxes are prepared to let the centre-forward leave in the January window, but are reluctant to let him join a Premier League club.
The report details that Leicester would prefer to send the Algeria international to a foreign club and French club Monaco are interest in him.
Slimani is a 6ft 2in colossus that is renowned for his brilliant aerial ability, but is stuck behind Jamie Vardy in the pecking order at the King Power Stadium.
The Daily Mirror previously reported that Benitez was eyeing a move for Slimani and the latest report from Sky shows his making a late swoop as deadline day approaches.
Good move for Newcastle?
Newcastle just need a proven goalscorer at this point and Slimani would fit the bill for them as they look to fight relegation.
He has managed five goals this campaign despite playing a fringe role and can be a deadly finisher in the 18-yard box.
The striker previously scored 57 goals in 11 games for Portuguese club Sporting and would be an excellent addition.
This Is Futbol rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
This deal certainly looks off the cards despite Newcastle’s late swoop as they seek to bring in a new centre-forward.
Leicester have made it clear they do not wish to sell to another Premier League club and that is likely to see the Algerian move abroad in search of more first-team experience.
This Is Futbol rating: 1/10