Source: SKY_Sports
Bassong biding his time
Newcastle United defender Sebastien Bassong is in no rush to sign a new and improved long-term contract with the St James' Park outfit.
Bassong only joined The Magpies last summer from French outfit Metz in a deal reportedly worth £1.5million after impressing while on trial.
The 22-year-old has been one of Newcastle's better performers in an otherwise forgettable season, leading to speculation he could be targeted by Arsenal this summer.
Bassong has confirmed Newcastle are keen to tie him down to a long-term deal, although the no-nonsense centre-half is biding his time and wants to see the club secure their top-flight status before committing his future.
"Newcastle's management want me to sign a contract extension, but nothing has been agreed," Bassong told the Daily Star.
"There has been talk of a lot of players leaving during the summer. It's not my responsibility, but I'll obviously follow the situation closely.
"It is down to me to weigh up the pros and cons and I will take my time to make up my mind. I've heard about Arsenal, but this is not the time to talk about it.
"I have stepped up a level since joining Newcastle, but I am still serving my apprenticeship and have lots more to learn.
"For the time being I can say I've made a good choice, though a lot of water has gone under the bridge since my trial last summer and I have earned my place in the first-team."
