Liverpool striker Andy Carroll could be in line for a shock return to Newcastle on a short-term loan.
The big striker has failed to settle at Anfield following his £35million move a year ago, and has scored just five goals since leaving the North-East.
And talkSPORT understands from a source close to the player that he would be open to a move back to his former club.
Alan Pardew is a big admirer of the England striker and has always left the door open for Carroll to return to St James' Park.
The Toon boss was full of praise for Carroll before his side's 3-1 defeat at Liverpool last week, saying: "You never want to lose great players and we never wanted to lose Andy. I'd take him back if I had the chance.
"If the fee offered by Liverpool had not been so high, he'd still be here."
Carroll is reportedly growing increasingly unsettled on Merseyside and often travels back to Tyneside to see family and friends.
Newcastle are short on striking options, and their resources will be stretched still further when top scorer Demba Ba goes away with Senegal on African Cup of Nations duty later this month.
And with Liverpool being linked with a big money move for Aston Villa striker Darren Bent, it could suit all parties for Carroll to return to Newcastle on a short-term deal as he seeks to re-discover his best form.

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