Blow for Arsenal as Montpellier defender set for new deal

Montpellier could hand Arsenal and AC Milan a transfer blow by offering a new deal to their sought-after skipper Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa.

The 23-year-old, whose current deal expires next summer, has been linked with both sides for over a year.

Arsenal and Milan were set to compete for his signature in January, given that he might be available on a free transfer next year, but Montpellier are ready to hand him a new two-year contract.

Montpellier are don't want to lose the France international for nothing, and are hopeful of tying up a deal soon.

The Ligue 1 side will also increase the release clause fee in Yanga-Mbiwa's contract and could try to start a bidding war between Arsenal and Milan next summer.