Blasted: Montpellier defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa (Picture: PA)

Montpellier president Louis Nicollin has dubbed Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa ‘an ass’ for choosing to join Newcastle.

The struggling French champions have agreed a fee with the Magpies for Yanga-Mbiwa, and although he’s yet to pass a medical, the centre-back is expected in the north-east today to sign a deal – much to the annoyance of Nicollin.

‘He chose Newcastle? If so, he is an ass,’ the eccentric Montpellier chief declared to L’Equipe.

‘It is not my fault but I think the manager [Alan Pardew] played a role. Newcastle, this is really not a good choice. They will transfer him the next year.


Unimpressed: Montpellier’s president Louis Nicollin (Picture: AFP)

‘It doesn’t bother me. We’re not going to cry. He is not irreplaceable. The important thing is that we get money.’



However, there still may be a final twist in the tail to the Yanga-Mbiwa saga, as the defender missed his scheduled medical in Newcastle yesterday, leading to fears he may be wavering over signing.

Arsenal were previously keen on the 23-year-old, and are understood to have asked about the deal Montpellier agreed with the Toon at the weekend.

Yanga-Mbiwa could be forced into a rethink should the Gunners firm up their interest, but weather depending, he is still expected to complete his move to St James’ Park later today.