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Report: World Cup hopes could see Perez leave Newcastle for Valencia

Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez looks on during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Burnley at Old Trafford on December 26, 2017 ...
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Ayoze Perez may be tempted to leave Newcastle to join either Valencia or Villarreal.

Ayoze Perez of Newcastle United celebrates the 2nd Newcastle goal during the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Newcastle United at The Hawthorns on November 28, 2017 in...Ayoze Perez celebrates the second Newcastle United goal during the Premier League match against West Bromwich Albion.

Ayoze Perez is being linked with a January exit from Newcastle United, with Spanish publication El Gol Digital reporting Valencia and Villarreal are both interested.

Perez has been an important part of the Magpies first team since their return to the Premier League this season, missing just two of their 20 league matches to date.

Jack Wilshere of Arsenal takes the ball past Ayoze Perez of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium on December 16, 2017...Jack Wilshere of Arsenal takes the ball past Ayoze Perez of Newcastle United during the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Newcastle’s struggles in the English top flight so far in 2017/18 means that the Spaniard could well be tempted by a return to his home country.

It is believed that Perez has outside hopes of making Spain’s squad for the 2018 World Cup – despite having never had a senior cap for the nation – and doesn’t believe that will happen if he stays at St James’ Park.

Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United looks on during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester City at St. James' Park on December 27, 2017 in Newcastle upon...Rafael Benitez, manager of Newcastle United, looks on during the Premier League match against Manchester City.

Yet playing for either Los Che or the Yellow Submarine – who sit third and sixth respectively – could potentially boost those chances.

It would come as a blow to Rafa Benitez who already has limited options in attack having failed to acquire his desired targets over the summer.