Viana could secure Benni

Newcastle could send Hugo Viana to Porto in exchange for Benni McCarthy.

The Magpies are keen to bolster their striking options following Patrick Kluivert's release and the unlikely return of Craig Bellamy.

Blackburn Rovers lodged two bids recently for the South Africa international but failed to reach an agreement with Porto.

Viana is surplus to requirements at St James' Park and spent the whole of last season with Uefa Cup runners-up Sporting.

Sporting are keen to retain Viana but Newcastle's hefty price tag is deterring the Portuguese giants from firming up their interest with an offer.

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd has conceded 'there is a possibility' a swap deal can be done with both clubs benefiting from the exchange.

Meanwhile, The Magpies have also been linked with a move for PSG striker Danijel Ljuboja, who was targeted by Charlton and Spurs earlier this year.

The Serbia & Montenegro hit-man is not first choice at Parc Des Princes and may look away from Le Championnat to secure regular football.