Newcastle United consider surprise move for Chelsea defender David Luiz

Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez is considering launching an audacious loan move for defender David Luiz, whose Chelsea future is uncertain following a row with manager Antonio Conte.

The Shields Gazette says Benitez built up a good working relationship with Luiz during his brief spell as manager of Chelsea and would like to reunite with the Brazil international on Tyneside.

Luiz, who is currently out of action with a knee injury, has fallen behind Andreas Christensen in the defensive pecking order at Stamford Bridge.

The centre-back was dropped for the Blues' win over Manchester United last month following a row with Conte, although the Italian later insisted that he had no problems with the player.

Juventus and Real Madrid are among other clubs reported to be monitoring Luiz's situation.

Conte said he did not pay attention to speculation linking Luiz with a move away from the club at a press conference on 19 December.

"I don't read [the speculation] and I [therefore] solve the problem. I don't read so I don't have information about this topic," the Chelsea boss was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

"As a person, I am very realistic, I like to tell the truth."

Chelsea re-signed Luiz to a three-year deal from Paris Saint-Germain for £34m ($46m) in August last year.

Benitez is keen on bringing in reinforcements to his squad and is hoping to bring in at least two forwards in addition to Luiz during the January transfer window.

Newcastle have been linked with a move for Liverpool striker Danny Ings, who has recently returned to fitness following a long-term knee injury.

"We have to try to bring the best players possible for us now. That means if you have a player on loan who's quite good now, then we have to do it," Benitez said.

"There are not too many options with Premier League experience, with the maximum level and the right personality, so it's not easy."