Newcastle condsidering Downing move

Stewart Downing is set to become the latest player to be moved on by Brendan Rodgers, with Newcastle United hopeful of agreeing a cut-price deal for the winger, according to the Express.

The 29 year old was told by Rodgers last autumn that he was free to find a new club, but the winger managed to force his way back into the Reds first team during the second half of the season.

He played in every domestic game from the 3-1 defeat to Villa on December 15th to the end of the season, a run in which he scored his first league goals for the club.

He had stated that he was happy to stay and fight new signings Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto for his place at Anfield, though he may be tempted to secure a move back to his native North East.

Elsewhere, talks between Liverpool and Napoli regarding the possible transfer of defender Martin Skrtel are at an advanced stage, the Daily Star understands.

The move would see the 28 year old link up with his international teammate Marik Hamsik, and Reds goalkeeper Pepe Reina, who recently secured a move to Naples on a season-long loan.