Newcastle have joined Aston Villa interest in Liverpool defender Joe Gomez.

The Athletic reports Newcastle and Aston Villa are likely to be near the front of the queue to sign Gomez should Liverpool decide to sell the defender this summer.

Gomez has endured a hugely frustrating season. He had barely played any minutes in the Premier League before getting through the 90 at the weekend as the Reds beat Norwich City.

The Athletic makes it clear that there has, so far, been no suggestion that Gomez is looking to leave Anfield. However, his contract will have two years left to run in the summer.

And should Liverpool decide to cash in on Gomez, Aston Villa and Newcastle may well make a move. The Magpies' ability to enter the race, of course, will largely depend on whether they manage to stay up.