L'Equipe report that Benitez has spoken with Haller by phone ahead of a bid for the Utrecht striker.
Newcastle face competition from a number of clubs for the 22-year-old's signature.
It is claimed that Haller, a France Under-21 international, is now open to a move to St James's Park.
United manager Benitez wants to sign another powerful striker to provide competition up front for Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has now served a four-game suspension and is available for Tuesday night's EFL Cup tie against Cheltenham Town.
L'Equipe add that a Newcastle bid is imminent.