Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez has reportedly identified Stoke City forward Peter Crouch as a possible target this summer.

Benitez has already strengthened his Magpies squad with five new signings ahead of the new season but if reports are to be believed, he wants to add a familiar face to his frontline.

According to The Mirror, Benitez is keen to sign out-of-favour Potters striker Crouch, who was restricted to just 11 appearances in the Premier League last season.

Crouch has previously admitted that he would be open to finding first-team football elsewhere, and with the transfer window open until the end of August, he could be allowed to leave Stoke after five years at the Britannia Stadium.

The former England international was signed by Benitez during his time at Liverpool, with Crouch going on to score 42 goals in 134 appearances.