A Premier League scramble has kicked off for Leganes midfielder Gabriel Pires.

The Sunday Mirror says Pires is on Rafa Benitez's radar – but the Toon chief faces a battle to land the 23-year-old.

The player has a £6m release clause in his contract.

There is also interest from West Ham and Everton. Zenit St Petersburg are also keen but the player has informed his advisors that a switch to Russia would not be his first choice.

Pires, 23, was with Juventus before establishing his career in Spain.