Newcastle United are currently eyeing attacking pair Joel Asoro and Josh Maja from arch rivals Sunderland, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claims that the Magpies have seen scouts to monitor the duo from the Black Cats, who are currently fighting against relegation in the Championship.
It is understood that Sunderland have offered Asoro, 18, and Maja, 19, new long-term deals to remain at the Stadium of Light.
The report details that both will see their existing contracts expire in 2019 and Newcastle believe that they are an upgrade on the current youngster at St James’ Park.
Good move for Newcastle?
Asoro is a centre-forward that has been a regular at Sunderland this season and scored twice in his 25 senior appearances.
Meanwhile 19-year-old teammate Maja is a striker that has netted once in 16 appearances.
They have both managed to break into the Sunderland first team from their academy and would not be ready for the Premier League next season with Newcastle.
However, it could be a sensible deal if Benitez views them as stars for the future and links them up with the Under-23s side.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
This deal seems a possibility given the fact that Newcastle are a Premier League side and that Sunderland are staring League One directly in the face.
It will be a big call for both young players with offers on the table, but the temptation to jump ship in the north east would be understandable.
This Is Futbol rating: 4/10