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Montpellier star Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa has confirmed that Newcastle United remain interested in his signature.

And the highly-rated France international defender has admitted he would relish the chance to move to Tyneside.

However, he also states that he would see the move to Newcastle as a perfect stepping stone to move on to AC Milan, who have seen a bid rejected.

Yanga-Mbiwa, 23, is captain of Montpellier and having led them to the French title last season is in talks over a new deal, but with Milan bidding and Newcastle still keen, is considering his options.

"It is possible that I can renew my contract with Montpellier, just as it is possible that I will not renew it," he told TuttoMercato.

"I do not exclude the possibility of renewing my contract with Montpellier."

Milan have seen a bid rejected by Montpellier and Yanga-Mbiwa admits he would love the chance to play for the Italian giants.

"Playing for Milan would certainly be a great opportunity for me, so now we wait," he continued.

He then admitted that Newcastle remain keen on him, suggesting a move to England could come before a switch to Italy.

"I know that Newcastle are also interested in me. Newcastle would be a great opportunity for me, and I would hope that eventually I could join Milan.

"Joining Newcastle before Milan would give me the chance to mature even more and gain more experience. We'll see what happens."

Milan chief Adriano Galliano confirmed over the weekend that they had seen their bid rejected.

"Montpellier turned down our offer and we cannot reach an agreement for buying the player," he said.

"Therefore, the case is closed with no regrets or bitterness."

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