Newcastle United have reportedly sent scouts to watch Bayer Leverkusen attacker Florian Wirtz.

The Magpies are currently enjoying a memorable campaign as they look to secure Champions League qualification.

Newcastle are sitting in fourth position in the Premier League table with a three-point cushion over fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who have played one game more.

Eddie Howe's side may well have to balance European and domestic football next season, and as result, the club are keen to strengthen their squad in the summer transfer window.

Wirtz appears to be a potential target and according to the Daily Mail, Newcastle scouts have been sent to watch the 20-year-old in action.

They were present to witness Wirtz score an 82nd-minute equaliser in last week's 1-1 draw with Union SG in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final tie.

Newcastle scouts were also in the stands for Sunday's goalless draw with Wolfsburg, where Wirtz came off the bench to feature for the final 29 minutes.

The Leverkusen man predominately plays in attacking and central midfield, but he would offer Newcastle versatility as he can also play out wide or up front.

Xabi Alonso's side are reluctant to sell the 19-year-old, who has also been linked with Manchester City, Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

However, a recent report claimed that they could be persuaded to part ways with the Germany international if they receive a £88m offer.

Wirtz missed the first half of the season through injury, but since returning to action after the World Cup break, he has scored four goals and provided eight assists in 17 competitive appearances.

The youngster is expected to be in Thursday's starting lineup for the second leg of Leverkusen's Europa League quarter-final.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are currently preparing for Sunday's important Premier League home game against Tottenham. body check tags ::