Newcastle winger Charles N'Zogbia has revealed that he would prefer to join Aston Villa rather than Arsenal.
The two clubs are said to be chasing the Frenchman but are currently being put off by the Magpies high valuation of the player.
The 22-year-old has voiced his desire to leave St James Park on a number of occasions already during his four years at the club must to the frustration of his managers.
N'Zogbia admits that he needs to move in order to improve as a player after growing tired with the same routine at the Toon.
The news is not likely to go down well with Newcastle fans particularly if a deal fails to materialise during the remaining days of the transfer window.
"I'm still in stand-by waiting for the club to make a decision," he told Foot Mercato.
"We did everything to put the club that are interested in contact with Newcastle. But it seems that something is frozen on Newcastle's part.
"They have the cards in their hands. It's just about a good offer being made. The club is asking for too much money. All we can do is wait and see.
"The clubs that are interested in me remain the same, but it's tough because they are asking for a ridiculous sum of money.
Options
"Arsenal and Aston Villa are top teams in the English league, so I'd be happy to join them.
"I don't have a priority. Both are good clubs, but I have a little preference for Aston Villa.
"They have been improving as a team in the last few years, which proves that they can do well.
"Aston Villa's manager is a good coach according to my friends I think he could make me better."
The want-away midfielder, who has featured 18 times for Newcastle in the league this season, has not ruled out a return to his native France with Lyon the destination.
"The door is not closed to Olympique Lyonnais. Perhaps after speaking with Newcastle their interest is not as strong as it used to be," he added.
N'Zogbia was quick to state that if a transfer was not to happen he would continue to give his all for the Magpies despite all of his comments.
"I'll give my best for the last four months if I'm to stay," he explained.
"I've told the club I want to improve and that it's impossible here. If I don't leave in January, we'll discuss things again regarding a summer move.
"Every year it's the same, the club tell us the same thing. We reach the half-season and it's always the same.
"I've been listening to the same thing for four years. I've had enough."
I think people should cheer him like a homecoming hero from now on, If people boo it makes his move easier. I would rather let him rot in the reserves for 4 years then let him maneuver a move away for the simple reason hes a fucking wanker
butt so