West Ham are interested in Arsenal's Francis Coquelin, but Newcastle are in the frame and - maybe - would be a better option for the midfielder.
The Daily Mail claim West Ham are leading the chase to gab the signature of the 26-year-old Frenchman, with clubs from his home country said to be interested in the holding midfielder too.
Although a proven Premier League performer, Coquelin has been afforded just 155 minutes of top-flight football this season with the likes of Granit Xhaka, Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere and Mohamed Elneny preferred.
Known for his intricate passing and tough-tackling nature in the middle of the park, Coquelin has risen through the Arsenal ranks but is available on the transfer market.
The downside - although the uncapped Frenchman, who earns £45,000 a week according to the Daily Star, would fit into Benitez's side - would he prefer to stay in London?