Fiorentina midfielder Milan Badelj is being linked with Newcastle United.
A personality clash between Toon boss Rafa Benitez and owner Mike Ashley has seen transfer spending put on hold.
The Mirror says a deal for West Brom striker Salomon Rondon and Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend are set to remain on the back burner until something gives.
One option open to Benitez is World Cup runner-up Badelj.
The 29-year-old Croatia midfielder is out of contract after four years with Fiorentina with several Premier League clubs including Newcastle being alerted to his free transfer status.