Last Updated: Sat, 19 Jan 2013 13:08
Newcastle are in talks with Montpellier over a deal to sign defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, according to reports.
Toon boss Alan Pardew is desperate to strengthen his squad in January as he bids to steer his side away from the Premier League relegation zone.
The need to bolster his defence has gathered greater urgency over the past week with the news that Fabricio Coloccini wants to return home to Argentina.
France international and Montpellier skipper Yanga-Mbiwa appears to be the man the Magpies want to replace Coloccini.
The French champions are understandably reluctant to let their skipper go, but reports on Saturday suggest a £6.7million deal is being discussed between the two clubs.
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