With West Ham supposedly having enjoyed a productive transfer window, the door may have opened for Andy Carroll's departure.

The 28-year-old scored seven goals in 15 league starts last season, but his injury problems have meant Slaven Bilic just can't rely on him being fit.

Javier Hernandez and Marko Arnautovic have been brought in - with the latter already in the fans' bad books for being sent off in the 3-2 defeat to Southampton.

Regardless, it's now unclear where Carroll features in Bilic's thinking.

According to the Mirror, that has prompted Newcastle to make a shock raid and try to bring the Geordie back to St James' Park.

Carroll left the Magpies for Liverpool in a then-club record £36million deal in 2011, but his move to Anfield wasn't a success. A loan to Upton Park followed, and he made his switch to the Hammers permanent in 2013.

So, would he be welcomed back in the northeast? Rafa Benitez has made it no secret that he isn't happy with Newcastle's squad so far, even threatening to quit in pre-season.

As it stands, it's going to be difficult for them to compete in the top flight with what's essentially still a Championship squad, give or take a few additions.

A player like Carroll with Premier League - and even international experience - would surely be a valuable asset. The odds have now been slashed with several bookmakers on him returning to United.

In further positive news for Benitez, Newcastle's business isn't going to end there.

Benitez's other target 

They're also thought to be plotting a move for Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere, per the same source.

The 25-year-old has been told he is free to leave north London if the right offer comes in, though he may stay on and fight for his place amidst what will be a packed schedule for the Gunners thanks to their participation in the Europa League.

It is the potential Carroll deal that is most intriguing. Newcastle can be confident that West Ham will let him go, since they were happy to sell him to a Chinese Super League club in January. Of course, that did not materialise, but it suggests his time at the London Stadium may well be up.

Should Andy Carroll move back to Newcastle? Have your say in the comments.