Newcastle United midfielder Moussa Sissoko has issued a despairing plea to Real Madrid.

The France star was impressive for France during their Euro 2016 campaign but endured patchy form with the now relegated Newcastle United.

The 26-year-old is anxious to avoid playing in the Championship with the Magpies this season, while reports have circulated he may well get his wish, as Liverpool, Real and Juventus have all expressed interest.

‘I hope Real will come for me. I’m still waiting,’ Sissoko told the BBC World Service. ‘If Real Madrid are interested in you, then of course you will be happy, but right now I am still a Newcastle player.’

The Frenchman has explained that he is eager to play for a big club and that Newcastle’s demotion has hindered his personal ambitions.

I want to play in the Premier League, I want to play for a big club who can get into the Champions League. That’s why I said I want to leave this year.

‘I’ve spent a lot of time here and now it’s time to look forward. The fans need to understand my situation. I hope they will and that everything will be okay,’ he added.

Sissoko made 37 appearances for Newcastle in the Premier League last season, scoring once and assisting a further seven.