Newcastle are on the trail of Arsenal midfielder Lassana Diarra as manager Sam Allardyce looks to add creativity to his midfield.

The Magpies are yet to table an offer for the 22-year-old France international, but have made an enquiry about a player who has been in their sights for some time.

However, the city's evening newspaper, the Evening Chronicle, is reporting that Portsmouth are also on the former Le Havre man's trail.

Diarra joined the Gunners during the final hours of the summer transfer window, but has made only 13 appearances to date - and just eight of them starts.