Newcastle United playmaker Hatem Ben Arfa is reportedly on a shortlist of summer transfer targets for free-spending Monaco as they prepare for a return to Ligue 1 next season.

Ben Arfa has endured a frustrating season at St James' Park, making just 22 appearances in a campaign blighted by hamstring problems.

Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Ben Arfa in 2013 but Monaco are prepared to splash the cash to tempt Alan Pardew to part with the French international, according to The Mirror.

Monaco have already signed Porto duo James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho for next season and look an increasingly attractive proposition with the lure of tax-free earnings.

Newcastle have tentatively opened talks with Ben Arfa's representatives over a new deal but are thought to be wary of a huge bid from the free-spending principality.