Jonas Gutierrez could be heading for the exit door at Newcastle United in the January transfer window with Spanish trio Villarreal, Atletico Madrid and Real Zaragoza all jostling for his signature.

As one of the biggest earners at St James' Park, the 27-year-old had been touted as one of the prime candidates to leave the club following their relegation from the Premier League last season.

But the Argentina remained with the Magpies, and has played a major role in helping Chris Hughton's men to the summit of the Championship table, prompting interest from a host of La Liga teams once again.

Newcastle splashed out £5million to bring Gutierrez to Tyneside from Real Mallorca in July 2008, and now he seems set to return to Spain in January.

The player's agent told The People: "We know European clubs are interested, we have held meetings with Newcastle, but there is an option for the player to leave, although it must be a good offer."