Arsenal 'tracking' Newcastle's Bassong

Newcastle defender Bassong has issued the traditional 'come and get me' plea, based on the fact that Arsenal need a centre half (GETTY IMAGES)

Wantaway Newcastle defender Sebastien Bassong claims he is being tracked by Arsenal and a number of clubs in the Barclays Premier League and abroad.

The Frenchman has outlined his intention to leave the Magpies following their relegation from the top flight but he is yet to find another club.

He would prefer to stay in England rather than move countries and he claims Arsenal are one of the teams to have made an initial inquiry.

"I confirm that," he told the website of France Football magazine. "There has been an approach. But for the moment, there is nothing concrete."

Bassong added: "Foreign teams have made inquiries but as my priority is to stay in England, I haven't followed them through.

"Clearly it would be better if everything went quicker but I am not worried."

Bassong, who joined Newcastle from Metz last summer, insists he no longer sees his future at St James' Park.

But the situation around the club, who are looking to be bought out, is not making his task of finding a club easy.

"Some Premier League clubs are interested in me but not everything is simple given that Newcastle are in the process of being bought out and the name of the future manager is still not known," he said.