The Geordies are desperate to strengthen their firepower — and they see the England striker as the perfect man to lead the Toon attack.

Crouch, 25, joined Liverpool from Southampton in a £7million deal in July 2005 and he has scored nine goals for the Reds this season.

But boss Rafa Benitez wants to keep his strike-force intact to maintain their challenge in the Champions League this season — though there might be room for manoeuvre during the summer.