Newcastle United winger Hatem Ben Arfa claims he is now interested in a move away from St James' Park, with Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool being his preferred destinations.

The 25-year-old was heavily linked with a transfer away from the Magpies in the summer but he eventually chose to stay in the North East. The France international has now revealed that Chelsea were interested in signing him but he decided to continue with Alan Pardew's side, who finished above the Blues in the Premier League last season.

Hatem Ben Arfa
Reuters

"I am interested by Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. Today, these clubs are over Newcastle," the former Marseille man told Goal.com, adding, "During the summer, there was contact with Chelsea. But I wanted to stay in Newcastle. Whoever tasted England, it's hard to go elsewhere. There is everything to be happy. Today, my goal is to stay in England."

Ben Arfa has three goals and two assists to his name from 13 league appearances for Newcastle this season. The Frenchman has also stated that it would complete a childhood dream if he would be able to play for Paris Saint-Germain one day.

Barton: Remy Will Join QPR

Meanwhile, Marseille's on-loan midfielder Joey Barton confirms that his teammate Loic Remy has taken a U-Turn on his decision to move to Newcastle United and will now join QPR instead.

Loic Remy
Olympique de Marseille

The Magpies had a bid accepted for the French forward at the weekend and the player was understood to be close to completing his transfer to St James' Park. However, the switch stalled when Rangers showed a late interest in the 26-year-old, and Barton, who is on loan at Marseille from QPR, claims that the player will now move to his parent club.

"Looks like I was right 2nd time about Remy going to QPR. Good signing. Good player Loic. And good lad as well. Wish him luck there...Not sure what happened at Newcastle probably Llambas again...Gift of the gab from Harry Redknapp perhaps? Thought it was done and dusted to Newcastle. Something must of gone amiss. Great news 4 #QPR," the 30-year-old tweeted.