The 32-year-old, who will not play again this season following surgery on his neck, is wanted by Bristol.

It is thought they may offer Ryan a player-coach role, with reponsibility for the fowards, following the departure of Dave Egerton.

"Negotiations are on and will continue, but as far as I know Newcastle have not agreed to release Dean," said Bristol manager Bob Dwyer.

Bristol manager Bob Dwyer

Ryan has enjoyed a successful partnership with Newcastle boss Rob Andrew, after both were dismissed by Wasps just six weeks after the game went professional.

He previously played for Saracens and could become the only man to appear in League One for four successive clubs if Bristol win promotion this season.

But Ryan is unlikely to come cheap and Bristol may have to offer a contract worth as much as £1m over five years.

Dwyer believes it would be money well spent, saying: "Because we are a new team we do not have an excess of leaders. Dean, by virtue of his stature as player and captain, could be an important addition."