Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa Linked with Return to France as Bordeaux Eyes Loan Deal
By BBC Sport
French centre-back Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa could be set for a return to Ligue 1, with Bordeaux reportedly in talks to secure a loan move for the Newcastle United defender.
The 25-year-old has seen his career stall since leaving Montpellier for Tyneside in 2013. After a promising start in England, Yanga-Mbiwa featured in 23 Premier League matches during the 2013–14 season but has since struggled to cement his place in the Magpies’ starting lineup.
According to reports from French broadcaster RMC, Bordeaux are keen to bring the Franco-Central African defender back to France. The Girondins, who recently missed out on signing Lindsay Rose from Lyon, have turned their attention to Yanga-Mbiwa and are believed to be pushing for a loan agreement.
Sources indicate that Yanga-Mbiwa is open to the move, viewing a return to Ligue 1 as a chance to reignite his career. However, negotiations are reportedly being held up by financial disagreements. While Bordeaux have expressed willingness to cover a portion of the player’s salary, their current offer is considered insufficient by Newcastle.
The former French international, who captained Montpellier to the Ligue 1 title in 2012, has yet to replicate that form in England. A return to familiar surroundings could provide the consistency he needs to get his career back on track.
As talks continue, both clubs will be hoping to reach a compromise in the coming days. For now, Yanga-Mbiwa’s immediate future remains uncertain.
