Newcastle winger James Milner is a reported target for Rafa Benitez, with the Liverpool boss keen to offload Jermaine Pennant in part-exchange.

Milner, 22, has already racked up almost 100 appearances for the Magpies since his £5million switch from Leeds in July 2004.

The hard-working midfielder, who is also interesting Aston Villa, has also been a key member of England's Under-21 side and is understood to be keen on a move to Anfield.

Newcastle are desperate to keep hold of Milner, who netted three times for the Magpies last season, and boss Kevin Keegan has already rejected out-of-hand a swap deal involving former Birmingham winger Pennant.

Midfielder Danny Guthrie, 21, has also been offered to Keegan, but the former England manager has set his sights on striker Peter Crouch.