Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez reportedly wants Lucas Leiva to be included in any deal that involves Georginio Wijnaldum.

The Telegraph is reporting that the Magpies boss is keen to link up with the Liverpool midfielder at St James' Park if he has to lose star Dutchman Wijnaldum to the Reds.

Liverpool are baulking at Newcastle's £27million asking price for Wijnaldum but a player-plus-cash deal involving Lucas is being mooted.

It is understood that Benitez would be prepared to sell for between £20m and £25m with Brazilian veteran Lucas to be thrown in.

The 29-year-old is not too keen to drop down to the Championship but could be swayed by Benitez having played over 120 times for the Spaniard during his spell at Anfield.

Another player being mentioned as a possible makeweight for any prospective Wijnaldum deal is promising full-back Jon Flanagan.