Newcastle given green-light to bid for striker Andre-Pierre Gignac

NEWCASTLE'S chances of signing Marseille goal-machine Andre-Pierre Gignac have been given a massive boost.

Marseille star Andre-Pierre Gignac

According to reports in France, the 27-year-old's big wages have become an issue, with French bosses eager to to drop his £300,000 from the overall bill.

The Toon’s striker search has added urgency as fears grow that Papiss Cisse could be on his way out of St James’ Park.

French sources claim a bid in excess of £10m has been made for Gignac last week and news coming from the continent suggest Marseille will be willing to part with the forward.

Andre-Pierre Gignac is not thought to be seeking a move away from France

“I've spoken about Gignac to numerous English clubs”

Joey Barton's representative Willie McKay

Joey Barton's representative Willie McKay revealed to Le Parisien the forward, who impressed during 2008-09 Ligue 1 season while at Toulouse scoring 38 goals, has been in contact with several Premier League sides.

He said: "I've spoken about Gignac to numerous English clubs."

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has been linked with Andre-Pierre Gignac

"They're interested in his profile. With his power, he's made for the Premier League."

But it looks likely Newcastle will have to fork out at least twice that for Gignac, who is believed to be reluctant to leave the Stade Velodrome.

Andre-Pierre Gignac in action for Marseille