Didier Deschamps reveals Moussa Sissoko in London to complete deadline day transfer

France manager Didier Deschamps has confirmed Mousa Sissoko is currently in London to complete his deadline day move away from Newcastle United.

Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are understood to be the two clubs battling to sign the France international, with just hours of the summer transfer window remaining, but his international coach would not reveal whether the player was in west London or north London.

"Moussa Sissoko? He is in London, he should be back in the evening," Deschamps said at a press conference.

The Press Association understands Newcastle are demanding £30m (€35m) for Sissoko, a fee they will accept in £6m instalments. Spurs are thought to have baulked at the valuation of the 27-year-old, but with just under five hours of the summer transfer window remaining, their hand could yet be forced.

The French Football Federation gave Sissoko permission to leave the Clairefrontaine training base ahead of the friendly with Italy and World Cup qualifier against Belarus in order to finalise a move.

The powerful midfielder made it clear following Newcastle's relegation to the Championship that he wished to make an immediate return to the top flight.

"I want to play in the Premier League, I want to play for a big club who can get into the Champions League," he told BBC Sport. "That's why I said I want to leave this year. I've spent a lot of time here and now it's time to look forward. The fans need to understand my situation, I hope they will and that everything will be OK."

Both Chelsea and Spurs are hoping to conclude other business before Wednesday's deadline. Having already signed Marcos Alonso from Fiorentina, the Blues are also close to sealing a sensational move to bring David Luiz back to the club.

Tottenham meanwhile are still hoping to finalise deals for Espanyol goalkeeper Pau Lopez and Marseille winger Georges Kevin-N'koudou.