Apparently the reports are emanating from France.
La Provence claims that the 23-year-old impressed the Premier League club prior to his horrific leg injury and the Magpies want to reward him with a permanent contract.
It's been reported that the Geordies would have to pay €6 million (£5.1m) to secure Ben Arfa's signature.
Ben Arfa had scored one goal in four Premier League appearances before suffering a broken tibia and fibula in his left leg in a challenge from Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong on October 3.
He on the road to recovery, but Newcastle (and the player) will not know if the surgery has been 100% successful until he returns to Premiership action.
It's a gamble, but one Alan Pardew feels is worth taking.