Democratic Republic of Congo striker Tresor Mputu has announced that he is seeking a new challenge outside Africa, hoping that he could bounce in the French Ligue 1.

“I have nothing else to prove in my continent. I’ve done everything for my club and I wish to play in France. I've still got talent and want to show it in your country. So if a club wants me, the deal will be sealed,” Mputu was quoted as saying in French magazine France Football.

The 25-year-old international striker made a huge impact, with Mazembe winning the CAF Champions League 2009 and claiming the Best African Player award the same year. He also helped DRC win the African Championship of Nations in 2009 and was named Best Player of the Tournament.

The highly-rated forward caught the attention of many European clubs, including England giants Arsenal who wanted to have a look at him on trial.

However, his career took an awful twist when he was been hit with a 12-month ban by FIFA after attacking a referee during the CECAFA cup. The ban, which ends next August, put all his future plans on hold as nobody wanted to take him on.

“I was very angry and I made a huge mistake. I ask forgiveness from all football fans. I just want to play again and show that I learnt my lesson and became a disciplined player,” Mputu concluded.

According to France Football, French sides Lorient, Valenciennes and Ajaccio may be interested in his services, but nothing official has occurred yet.