Moussa Sissoko insists that Rafael Benitez has no problem with him leaving Newcastle United as long as the club's asking price is met, as he looks to move to one of Europe's elite sides.
The France international midfielder is keen to move on from St. James' Park following Newcastle's relegation from the Premier League and he has been linked with a number of Europe's elite clubs, including Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid.
Newcastle have slapped a €40m asking price on his head and Sissoko insists Benitez fully understands his situation and is prepared for him to leave the Magpies if the sum required is met.
Sissoko told Foot Mercato: "Yes [I still want to leave Newcastle]. I always hope to have the chance to join a fashionable club. Now we are negotiating with Newcastle.
"My agent has had discussions with the club. They are open to a departure. It's good. Now I hope that everyone will find what they want and I will have the chance to play elsewhere", the midfielder continued, before explaining he has had a number of discussions with Benitez.
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"I was not really worried [that Newcastle would refuse to sell me]. I had the chance to chat with the coach at the end of the season. During the Euros, I spoke with him.
"He is a great coach. He knows what is good for his squad. He also knows what is good for a player.
"If I have the opportunity to play for a great club, he will not stop me. That's good, we found common ground.
"Now he's missing a club that can close [a deal] with Newcastle and make sure everything comes off in good order", Sissoko added.
The midfielder was in fine form for France at Euro 2016, further enhancing his reputation in the process.
Newcastle meanwhile started their bid to earn promotion straight back to the Premier League away at Craven Cottage on Friday evening and slipped to a 1-0 defeat after a Matt Smith header on the stroke of half time was not met with a reply from the visitors.
