Newcastle United 'tracking Mainz 05 striker'

Newcastle United have reportedly identified Mainz 05 striker Yoshinori Muto as a possible transfer target.

Manager Rafael Benitez has guided Newcastle to a 10th-place finish in the Premier League standings this season, and the Spaniard has already started to eye up potential signings for the summer.

According to Calciomercato, Muto is on the radar of the Magpies with Benitez keen to add more firepower to his side's attack ahead of the next campaign.

The 25-year-old has contributed eight goals and two assists in 27 appearances in the Bundesliga this season, but the Japanese international has just over one year remaining on his contract.

With Muto potentially being available for a cut-price fee, a deal could suit Newcastle as Benitez's budget for the summer remains uncertain.