Newcastle are considering a loan move for Ruben Neves to fill the void left by banned Sandro Tonali, talkSPORT understands.
The former Wolves midfielder is currently at Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, who are owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), who also own a controlling stake in Newcastle.
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It is thought the Magpies, who are also tracking out-of-favour Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, cannot afford a permanent replacement for Tonali in January due to FFP restrictions.
Ex-Chelsea ace N'Golo Kante is another player who could come into Newcastle's thinking as he turns out for PIF-owned Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League.
Tonali, who signed for Eddie Howe's side for £55million this summer from AC Milan, has been handed a ten-month ban from football for his involvement in illegal betting.
The 23-year-old is accused of placing bets on AC Milan and former club Brescia during his time with them.
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He is still allowed to train with Newcastle during his ban, but will be unable to play for the rest of the season.
He will also miss Euro 2024 with Italy should the defending European champions reach the tournament.
Potential replacement Neves made 253 appearances for Newcastle's Premier League rivals Wolves during his six years at the club, scoring 30 goals in that time.
The Portugal international then left Molineux for Al Hilal this summer in a £47m deal.
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Since his move to the Saudi Arabia, Neves has made 13 appearances, scoring once in that time.
Alongside Neves, the Saudi Pro League leaders boast fellow former Premier League star Aleksandar Mitrovic and Neymar.
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