Arsenal are on the chase for Newcastle United midfielder Moussa Sissoko, after the Frenchman admitted his liking for the London based club since his early days in football, but assured the Geordie faithful that he would be a Newcastle player until there is an official interest, according to the Mirror.

Sissoko’s strengths lie in his strength to hold off defenders and the ability to use his pace and carry on attacks for his side. However, his finishing has been in question on some occasions at Newcastle, but his partnership with Paris Saint Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye was lethal for the opposition during the latter’s spell at St. James Park. With the quality available in the Arsenal midfield, Sissoko could play his best football but will have to prove his fitness with some of the world’s best. If the move does go through, the French international will join his compatriot and former Newcastle team mate Mathieu Debuchy, who opened his scoring for Arsenal in their draw against Liverpool at Anfield. Newcastle bought the midfielder from Toulouse for a fee in the region of £9 million, and Newcastle owner Mike Ashley will not listen to offers below £15 million.

Arsenal next face Queens Park Rangers on Boxing Day, and they will be back to the Emirates Stadium for that tie. A win could take them close to West Ham United on the points tally as the Hammers take on league leaders Chelsea.