Newcastle United are preparing a move for Manchester United defender Phil Jones.

The Mirror says Jones has become a bit-part player at Old Trafford this season and United are now prepared to listen to offers for the 28-year-old defender who can leave for £12million at the end of the season.

The injury-hit star is now thought to be open to a move as he seeks more regular game-time after just eight appearances all season – the last in the 6-0 fourth round FA Cup romp at Tranmere in January when he scored.

The former England star has fallen down the pecking order at United and is now considered fourth choice behind Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly.

Geordie boss Steve Bruce is keen to do a deal for Jones who has huge Premier League and European experience after Sir Alex Ferguson signed him as a 19-year-old in a £16million deal with Blackburn in 2011.