According to reports in The Mirror, Newcastle United are in pole position to sign former Manchester City winger Jesus Navas with his move to Sevilla on the verge of collapsing.

What’s the word, then?

Well, the 31-year-old is a free agent having been released by City this summer following the expiry of his contract, and The Mirror says he had been expected to agree a deal to return to former club Sevilla.

However, talks between the club and the player have stalled as the La Liga outfit aren’t willing to increase their wage offer of £1.3m-a-year for the wide-man, and he has until next Sunday to decide whether he will accept their proposal, according to The Mirror.

The report adds that the snag in the potential deal has caught the attention of Benitez, with the Magpies putting a proposal of their own to Navas’ agent.

How did Navas do in his last City season?

The Spaniard struggled to break into the starting line-up up Pep Guardiola, however he was still a regular on the substitutes’ bench and made 36 appearances in all competitions.

He failed to get on the scoresheet but did provide two assists in those outings, while the winger showed his versatility by also filling in at right-back later on in the campaign.

Would he be a good signing for Newcastle?

He certainly would be.

The 31-year-old has played at the highest level for Sevilla, Manchester City and Spain, and would bring some much-needed experience to the Magpies side next term as they look to avoid being embroiled in a relegation battle on their Premier League return.

The winger would look to bring some creativity and pace in wide areas, although crossing didn’t always seem to be one of his strong points during the latter stages of his City career.

However, the fact that the Spaniard is available on a free and can play in any position on the right-hand side make him an even more attractive addition, and Benitez will be hoping to tie up a deal.

What’s the word, then?

Well, Navas is a highly-experienced player and the fact that he is available on a free transfer – as well as the fact that Benitez will be keen to boost his squad with players that have Premier League know-how – should mean that they go all out to bring the winger to St James’ Park.

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