Newcastle raise interest in Ligue 1 stalwart
Reports are suggesting that Newcastle United are ready to solve their defensive woes this week and will complete the late signature of Montpellier defender, Yanga M’Biwa.
The Magpies were hit hard in December after learning that Steven Taylor would miss the rest of the season through injury.
Newcastle’s back four were probably the most consistent part of the club’s magnificent start to the 2011-12 season with the partnership of Taylor, Danny Simpson, Fabricio Collocini and Steven’s namesake, Ryan, functioning excellently together.
Since the injury, James Perch and Mike Williamson have filled in where needed but have failed to make the same impact as captain, Taylor.
In accordance, the North East outfit have been linked with several centre-backs and after James Tomkins ruled out a move away from West Ham, it seems M’Biwa is the preferred target.
Despite his young age, the 22 year-old has made 175 appearances for Montpellier, regularly racking up over 30 appearances in a season.
M’Biwa is a former French Under-21 international and would hope that by stepping up to a bigger stage, his hopes of making it into France’s Euro 2012 plans would look more hopeful.
Rumours have surfaced that Alan Pardew’s side have had a bid of around £6.5m accepted for the defender and he is now set to undergo a medical with the English side before completing his move to the Premier League.
M’Biwa would join a growing contingent of French-speaking stars at St.James’ Park that boasts such talents as Yohan Cabaye, Demba Ba, Hatem Ben Arfa and most recent acquisition, Papiss Demba Cissé, which could sweeten the deal and tempt the youngster into completing the move.
