Moussa Sissoko to Real Madrid: Newcastle star deals Arsenal major blow by admitting Bernabeu move would be a “dream”
MOUSSA SISSOKO has dealt Arsenal a major blow by saying it would be a "dream" to play for Real Madrid.
Bernabeu bosses want to sign the £35million-rated Newcastle midfielder, 26, as a cheaper alternative for his France team-mate Paul Pogba.
The Gunners and Borussia Dortmund are also interested in acquiring his signature after Sissoko impressed at the Euros.
He told : "That's flattering. Who would not be flattered by the interest of the best clubs in the world?
"It's simple - when you are young and you start playing football, your dream is to become a professional and play for a club like Real or Manchester United.
"I have worked my way up and if a club like Real comes to me, it will be something huge. It is difficult to reject a club like Real, although you still have to think carefully to make the best decision possible.
"[Being coached by Zinedine Zidane] could be something fantastic, but that is not the case today.
"Everyone knows Zidane, his career, the man he is and the coach he is becoming. This is a great person in the world of football.
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"Now I wait to see if this is really feasible before I think about it and make a decision. I know there are a lot of interested clubs. So we will take all the options into account before making the best choice possible. We will see what happens.
"Since the beginning of my career, I didn't have the opportunity to play Champions League matches and I have a real desire to discover this competition.
"At Newcastle, I have continued my progress and now I think I have the qualities to be able to aim higher. I was waiting for my time and perhaps it has arrived. I feel able to go to the big leagues and my wish is to join a really big club."
Sissoko is still a Newcastle player but missed the Magpies' first game of the season on Friday - a 1-0 loss at Fulham.
The Frenchman revealed Rafa Benitez has his best interests at heart and is happy to find him a new club - as long as the price is right.
Sissoko added: "I had a very good talk with my coach where we could put everything on the table. He would have liked to keep me but he also knows what is good for a player. He is therefore open to my departure.
"There were also exchanges on this with my representatives and leaders of the club. I now hope that everyone will find happiness. The club requires a significant amount and the clubs who want me will have to find common ground with them."