New Spain coach Luis Enrique is keen to take a close look at Newcastle United striker Ayoze Perez.

The Evening Chronicle says Enrique was appointed as Spain manager earlier this month, following Julen Lopetegui's dismissal on the eve of the tournament for accepting the Real Madrid job, and it is understood that the new boss will send scouts to report on Perez's Newcastle performances.

Enrique declared that he was going to work from a “blank canvas" - and revealed he had written down the names of 70 players he is already considering for international selection.

According to sources in Spain, Perez's name was on the list - as was former Magpies midfielder Mikel Merino, who left United for Real Sociedad in a £10million deal earlier this month.

Although Perez is not expected to immediately receive a call up to the national squad, Enrique is expected to send scouts to watch Newcastle matches throughout the 2018/19 campaign and report back on the United No 10.