Eurozone growth slumped to 49.2 points in September against 50.7 points the previous month, according to the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) leading indicator, compiled by London-based researchers Markit.

A fall below 50 points indicates contraction, the first time the indicator has recorded such a slide since July 2009, Markit said.

Its chief economist Chris Williamson said it appeared to indicate stagnation in the eurozone in the third 2011 quarter.

Growth was slowing to approach stagnation in France and Germany with activity down for the fourth month running in the remainder of the 17-nation eurosone.

Earlier this month Markit indicated private sector economic activity slowing even faster than initially thought in August.