Sampdoria midfielder Dennis Praet is a target for Newcastle

Newcastle are closely monitoring Sampdoria midfielder Dennis Praet after sending scouts to watch him in action against Benevento.

However, Sky sources understand Rafa Benitez is under pressure to sell a number of players before investing in new recruits.

Praet, 23, joined Sampdoria last summer after five years with Anderlecht, where he won three league titles.

The Belgium international made 34 appearances in his debut season in Italy, scoring one goal. He played 84 minutes of Sampdoria's 2-1 win over Benevento on Sunday night.

Benitez has been frustrated by the lack of signings this summer, although Newcastle did complete the transfer of forward Joselu from Stoke City last week.

Newcastle were beaten 1-0 at Huddersfield on Sunday

The Spaniard has questioned whether Newcastle are ready for the demands of the Premier League following back-to-back defeats against Tottenham and Huddersfield respectively.

Goalkeeper Rob Elliot admits the ongoing debate about Newcastle's transfer activity could be having a detrimental effect on those currently at St James' Park.

"With the stories flying around - we haven't got enough, we have got enough - I don't think it's very fair on the squad," he admitted.

"They did such a terrific job last year and we've brought in some good players. We just wanted it to be about looking forward to the Premier League season, unfortunately it's not been that."