Liverpool and Arsenal are on red alert following news that Newcastle are ready to sell Demba Ba, report The Mirror.

The Magpies are believed to be growing more and more frustrated by the Senegalese international’s reluctance to commit to a new deal and are prepared to let him leave in January.

They are said to be looking to move the 27-year-old on as early as possible, to give themselves a chance to bring in a replacement, with Marseille hit-man Loic Remy top of a list of targets.

Ba is reportedly seeking a bumper contract of £80,000-per-week, a figure that Toon owner Mike Ashley is unwilling to match.

Due to a much reported clause in the striker’s contract, Newcastle will be forced to accept a rock bottom fee, in the region of £7m, which will tempt a whole host of Premier League clubs.

Liverpool are thought to be leading the race, with their desire to bring in attacking reinforcements well known.

The club’s owners are reportedly willing to back Brendan Rodgers in the transfer market, as the Reds look to step up their pursuit of Champions League football.

Arsenal are also in the hunt, with summer signing Olivier Giroud struggling to lead the line for the Gunners.

Ba was in fine for the St James’ Park team last term, notching an impressive 16 goals.