Newcastle Transfer News: Papiss Cisse To Quit Toon For Qatar?

Senegal striker Papiss Cisse is set to leave Newcastle United for a big money move to Qatar after becoming a bit-part player at St James' Park.

The fine form of loan star Loic Remy, coupled with Cisse's own lack of goals has seen him lose his place in Magpies XI this term.

Sunday's tabloids, including the Sun and Mirror, claim that talks about a Tyneside exit for Cisse in the winter window have taken place. Newcastle want to recoup as much of the £9 million they paid for him as possible, however.

Cisse, 28, made a phenomenal start to his Magpies career when he joined from German club Freiburg two years ago. He managed 13 goals in as many Premier League starts in the second half of 2011-12. Last season, Cisse scored the same number in the whole campaign.

Alan Pardew has often played with one up front this season, restricting the misfiring Cisse to substitute appearances behind Remy. Newcastle also have Shola Ameobi to choose from in attack.

Several of Cisse's fellow Africans, including compatriot Mamadou Niang, play in the 14-team Qatar Stars League. In other Magpies news, Montpellier are bracing themselves for a bid from Pardew for Remy Cabella.