The Cleveland Indians could be interested in signing free agent Kevin Youkilis, Paul Hoynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Youkilis was on the Tribe's radar right before the July trading deadline, but he ended up with the Chicago White Sox, helping them contend until the final stages of the season.

Cleveland would use him mostly as a first baseman and DH. Lonnie Chisenhall is widely believed to be the starting third baseman for 2013.

The connection is even clearer after the Indians signed former Red Sox skipper Terry Francona, for whom Youkilis played since they both arrived to Fenway Park in 2004.

The 33-year-old infielder played 43 games with Boston right before landing in Chicago, appearing in 80 games with the White Sox. He hit .235 with 15 doubles, 19 home runs and 60 RBI in 2012.

That Youkilis can take the DH spot and also play first and third base makes him worthy of consideration, since the Indians need help in several of those positions.