Newcastle United are poised to make an offer for Stewart Downing after learning that Liverpool are reportedly willing to sell the winger for just £5m.

The former England international joined the Reds in a £20m switch from Aston Villa two years ago, but has failed to meet the expectations placed on him following his big-money move.

Brendan Rodgers had planned to offload Downing last January, but the 29-year-old put in a series of good performances after Christmas which had looked to improve his chances of a future at Anfield.

However, he has not been used in Liverpool's most recent pre-season matches, and it now appears that Downing is happy to leave Merseyside in order to play regular first-team football this campaign.

The Liverpool Echo understands that Newcastle, who recruited Loic Remy on a season-long loan from Queens Park Rangers on Monday, are keen to also add Downing to their ranks and will meet his cut-price valuation.