Rafael Benitez is keeping tabs on the Spain U21 team-mate of Mikel Merino, Alphonso Pedraza, ahead of the January transfer window, reports the Shield Gazette.
Pedraza spent the latter half of last season on-loan with Leeds United, where he made 14 appearances and scored 1 goal.
The 21-year-old is now currently on-loan with La Liga side A Alaves from his parent club Villarreal.
Alphonso’s current contract at the Yellow Submarine runs until 2021, although it is understood Alaves have an ‘option to buy’ clause in his loan deal, meaning Newcastle would need to act fast if they are to secure the services of the Spaniard.
Should they try and swoop for the ex-Leeds loanee, they are expected to be challenged by fellow Premier League side Southampton, who are also understood to be interested in the winger.
Alphonso, a Spain U21 team-mate of Newcastle United midfielder Mikel Merino, has been capped 11 times at youth level by his country, however is yet to make a senior team appearance.
