When Newcastle United were relegated at the end of last season, their supporters had every reason to be downbeat.

Not only were they resigned to the second tier of English football but they faced the reality of losing both their quality players and Rafa Benitez, who seemed like the only man to offer the Toon hope after a dismal season.

But with the Spaniard signing a new deal at St James' Park, there is real cause for optimism going into next season.

Yet one thing that still needs to be sorted is Andros Townsend's future, with the English winger thought to be a main part of Newcastle's plans if they want to return to the top flight at the first attempt.

However, there's been a bit of interest in his future, especially from the Premier League- which could prove tempting for a player of Townsend's quality.

So with that in mind, here are FIVE teams who could make a move for Townsend this summer...

Liverpool

klopp

It's no secret that Liverpool are looking for reinforcements this summer and Townsend could be the perfect fit.

Whilst he was unlucky to miss out on the England squad, the chance to play under the charismatic German could prove too tempting to pass up.

They will be pressing forward to try and get into the Champions League next season and Townsend could serve to be a big part of that.

Manchester City

Manchester City v Real Madrid - UEFA Champions League Semi Final First Leg

Manchester City have an ageing squad and need to improve their ranks if they are to challenge next season.

The likes of Yaya Toure aren't getting any younger and Townsend could be a massive asset on the wing, even if he is not in the starting XI week-after-week.

Stoke City

Everton v Stoke City - Barclays Premier League

Stoke have been quietly getting on with their business for a number of years now and under Mark Hughes have brought an extremely competent squad capable of challenging for Europe.

It seems they’re only missing a couple of real quality players to achieve their goal and the addition of Townsend could give them that difference.

Everton

Koeman

With Ronald Koeman now in the Goodison Park hot-seat and the Toffees having significant financial backing behind them, expect the Dutchman to add heavily to his new side this summer.

And one extremely strong option would be Townsend, who would give Everton a huge amount of pace on the wing.

With Romelu Lukaku now thought to be considering a stay due to Koeman's arrival, the chance to play in an extremely talented Everton squad may prove too much to turn down for Townsend.

West Ham

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West Ham is an extremely exciting place to be right now and with Payet and co. on fire at the Euros, this may be another fantastic club for Townsend to consider if they come in with an offer.

With the impending move to the Olympic Stadium not far away, this could be another persuasive tool used to ensure the Englishman joins the Hammers.