Newcastle & Arsenal Target Could Stay

April 19, 2012 9:29 pm

Despite all the rumours regarding his future with Montpellier, captain Mapou Yanga Mbiwa could actually stay with the club. Montpellier will have a tough job on their hands in keeping hold of the 22 year-old defender amidst interest from the Premier League, notably from clubs like Arsenal and Newcastle United, but the player has hinted in Midi Libre that rumours of his departure could be all talk.

“It might be too soon to leave. We’re in the middle of a great adventure.

“There is an opportunity to play in the Champions League with my formative club, which would be nice.

“It doesn’t depend on me. If an offer comes in and the two clubs reach an agreement…”

The young defender has been influential for Montpellier as they continue their hunt for the Ligue 1 title this season. His current contract with the club runs out in 2013. Montpellier could be in for a tricky summer window as they look to keep hold of some of their key players, including Younes Belhanda, Mapou Yanga Mbiwa and Olivier Giroud.

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Paris Saint-Germain defender Mamadou Sakho has spoken of his disappointment at being on the bench during the club’s push in the Ligue 1 title race.

“It’s frustrating being on the bench. The most important thing is that PSG keep winning and become champions.”

The player clearly has PSG’s best interests at heart but, with Euro 2012 looming, he will be hoping for his opportunity to shine with Laurent Blanc’s selection in mind.

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Marseille’s Coupe de la Ligue victory over Lyon may have been a high point in what has ultimately been a disappointing season for the club but sporting director José Anigo does not foresee a change in the club’s spending policy.

“It’ll be a transfer window like any other. Players have contracts which are to be respected. The club will decide which players will leave and which will stay.

“It’ll be more complicated financially with a lack of Champions League football but I trust the president. He is smart enough to find resources.”

It may end up being a busy summer for Marseille, however, with many players being linked with the club as well as some current players being linked elsewhere.

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Toulouse’s solid performance in Ligue 1 overall this season has left the fans dreaming of Europe. This was given a boost with a 3-0 victory in a strong showing against Lyon on Wednesday night.

Midfielder Pantxi Sirieix, who scored the first goal on the night, has said that European qualification is now the priority for the club.