The Magpies are in the middle of a takeover and they are likely to have a considerable transfer kitty this summer, if the takeover goes through.
Bent reckons that McGinn would be a superb addition to the side.
He said to Football Insider: “If you can go and get someone like a John McGinn, I don’t think the price would be that high if Villa were to go down.
“I don’t think the price would be crazy high so that would be a great first signing. It’s really exciting times.
“I was at Spurs when the whole Manchester City takeover happened and the first signing they rolled out was Robinho.