Newcastle United target keen to leave Montpellier

Newcastle United target Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa has offered encouragement to Alan Pardew's pursuit of him by hinting that he is unlikely to stay at Montpellier HSC beyond the expiration of his current contract.

The 22-year-old club captain at Stade de la Mosson had been linked with a move to the Sports Direct Arena in the January transfer window, but he was keen to stay and compete for the Ligue 1 title this season.

However, the uncapped French defender, whose current deal runs out in 2013, has now revealed that he is keen to move elsewhere in order to further his career. "Playing in the Champions League with Montpellier, it would be magical, but let's just say that I like to be independent," the defender told Inside Futbol.

"I did not want to extend my contract because I thought that at some point I will need to leave to advance my career."

Arsenal manger Arsene Wenger is also known to be an admirer of Yanga-Mbiwa.