Newcastle United midfielder Moussa Sissoko has admitted that he would find it difficult to turn down the opportunity to join Real Madrid.

Sissoko has been linked with a transfer away from St James' Park with a number of clubs said to be interested in his signature, but the French international has suggested that a move to the La Liga giants would be his number-one choice should he be granted permission to leave the North-East.

The 26-year-old told Foot Mercato: "Some clubs have come in. They have had discussions with the club, with my agent. We will see what happens. I hope it will lead to something good."

After being asked whether he was flattered by speculation linking him with Real Madrid, he said: "Who would not be? Real Madrid is one of the best clubs in the world. For now, I am still a Newcastle player. I wait and, if it's Real Madrid, so much the better."

Sissoko was absent from the Magpies squad which lost 1-0 to Fulham on Friday night.