Newcastle United have reportedly given consideration to an audacious loan bid for Chelsea defender David Luiz.
After an alleged disagreement with head coach Antonio Conte, Luiz has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge during the January transfer window.
Manchester United, Arsenal and Real Madrid have all been credited with an interest in the Brazilian international but according to the London Evening Standard, Newcastle are ready to join the race for the 30-year-old's signature.
Newcastle are currently languishing in the bottom three of the Premier League table, but Benitez could have funds for the start of 2018 due to the club's expected takeover.
Benitez and Luiz have also worked together in the past, with Luiz playing a key role for the Blues when Benitez led the club to the Europa League in 2013.
Luiz is currently sidelined with an ongoing knee problem, with Conte saying that he is unclear of how long the player will spend out of action.
Darren Plant
