Portsmouth are reportedly leading the chase for Senegal international midfielder Papa Bouba Diop, who will be allowed to leave Fulham.

The 29-year-old has been told by Cottagers boss Lawrie Sanchez that he can leave the club and Diop is now considering his options.

"I told the new manager in the summer I wanted a new challenge and now he has said yes," said Diop.

"He said 'now this is my team so if you want to leave go ahead'.

"I have many offers and I am just waiting. I will stay in England in the Premier League. I have had a good pre-season and I'm ready. I'm just waiting.

"I don't know if it will be anyone like Arsenal or Manchester United but I have good teams in England interested and I must wait. I don't want to say who they are yet.

"But I do expect to have left Fulham by the time the transfer window closes.

"I want a fresh challenge. And now the clubs know how much money Fulham want. But I don't have any control over that. I am just focused on my job."