Matt Ritchie could be let go to pay for Townsend move at Newcastle

The Scottish international winger is a popular figure at St James' Park, and he was a regular for the team last season making 42 appearances in all competitions.

However, the 'Magpies' are thought to be open to letting Ritchie go in order to finance a move to bring former player Andros Townsend back to the club from Crystal Palace.

Stoke have offered a reported £11.5 million for the former Bournemouth man, but the 'Toon' are looking to raise a fee in the region of £15 million.

Should they wish to bring Townsend to Tyneside, 'Sky Sports' reports that London-based club will ask for £17 million.

The England international played 13 times in a 6 month spell with Newcastle, scoring 4 goals.

It is thought that Rafa Benitez was impressed with his performances in that period and would like to add some much-needed pace to the Newcastle attacking ranks.