Released Newcastle United midfielder Nicky Butt is giving serious consideration to an offer from Preston North End to extend his playing career.

The Daily Mail say the former Manchester United midfielder, 35, is available on a free transfer and Preston manager Darren Ferguson is keen to see him provide the necessary experience in midfield as he overhauls his squad.

The 35-year-old Butt has been at Newcastle since a £2.5million move in 2004, but is now out of contract. Magpies boss Chris Hughton had suggested Butt could retire.