McCloskey, who takes on veteran American DeMarcus Corley in Belfast next month, was named as a possible opponent by the four-weight champion's handlers.

And promoter Eddie Hearn says the Corley fight now takes on extra significance with a big fight in the pipeline for 'Dudey'.

"Paul's name has been mentioned by JMM's team in the last week and I reached out to Top Rank yesterday to let them know that we'd love the fight," said Hearn.

"I think we are in with a decent chance but a convincing win against Corley in front of a packed King's Hall crowd would strengthen our case for a July clash with Marquez."

Marquez was unfortunate not be given the decision in his third fight with Manny Pacquiao last year and he is looking to fight a southpaw in the summer ahead of a possible fourth encounter with Pac-Man.

However, there are a number of other fighters in the running for the Texas date, with undefeated Filipino Mercito Gesta, Mike Alvarado and Brandos Rios all possible opponents for Marquez.