Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are eyeing off Japan's World Cup stars.

The Mirror says Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez is keen on striker Yoshinori Muto, who has been on the bench for Japan's opening two games.

Muto, 25, is valued at around £14million and has scored 20 goals in 65 Bundesliga appearances for Mainz since joining them from FC Tokyo in 2015.

Palace want Hiroki Sakai, 28, and the Marseille full-back has started in the win over Colombia and the draw against Senegal in Japan's impressive start to the tournament.

Palace are prepared to offer around £12million for Sakai, but Marseille could price him out of a move because they feel his value is much higher.