Arsenal continue to track Barton and Enrique as doubts persist about Clichy's future

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton is continuing to attract surprise interest from Arsenal.

Arsene Wenger confidant Steve Rowley watched three of Newcastle's games towards the end of the season as he ran the rule over Jose Enrique and Cheik Tiote, but it was Barton who received glowing reports.

The 28-year-old had one of his best seasons last term following on from an impressive year in the Championship when his crosses from the right wing helped Andy Carroll forge a reputation that ultimately earned the club £35million.

Barton wanted to stay at Newcastle but is now ready to leave after being shocked by their reluctance to agree terms on a new contract - even though he was willing to take a pay cut.

The club have sold his good friend Kevin Nolan to West Ham and may yet offload Jose Enrique, Jonas Gutierrez and Alan Smith depending on what offers they receive.

Newcastle want around £4million for Barton who has one year left on his current deal but a deal for considerably less could be brokered - particularly as the window draws to a close.

That is when Arsenal plan to make a move and it will leave Newcastle with a tough choice as they do not want to lose him for nothing next summer or from January when long-time admirer Frank Arnesen may try to lure him to Hamburg.

Arsenal also remain interested in left-back Enrique amid ongoing concerns over Gael Clichy's future.

barton and enrique will leave this summer. barton has been tweeting again and said that he will let us know as soon as somthing happens.