Newcastle midfielder Rolando Aarons has become a top target for clubs in Athens, according to Greek outlet SDNA.gr.
Earlier in the week, the website stated Panathinaikos were after the Jamaican-born Englishman, but have since suggested their city rivals AEK Athens are also interested in a loan deal.
SDNA.gr suggested Panathinaikos would have a good chance at securing the winger, because the Technical Director is former Newcastle defender Nikos Dabizas, but their rivals may now be favourites to land the 23-year-old.
Panathinaikos only finished eighth in the Greek Super last season, while AEK finished third and will be competing in the Europa League next season.
Aarons is a Newcastle trainee and signed his professional contract in 2014, however since then, he has struggled to break into the first team at St James’ Park and has only made 18 league appearances for the club. The midfielder has already spent time away from Tyneside with loan spells at Verona, Slovan Liberec and Sheffield Wednesday, as well.
The report from SDNA.gr suggests the Greek sides want Aarons but are expecting Newcastle to pay most of his salary if he joins one of the Athens based clubs. Panathinaikos may now switch their attention to Cal Roberts, who will be released by Newcastle when his contract expires at the end of the month.