Pardew looking to strengthen French connection

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew is set to end his frustration in the transfer market with the capture of defenders Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa and Massadio Haidara from French clubs Montpellier and Nancy respectively.

Montpellier reported on their website that Yanga-Mbiwa is currently on Tyneside to undergo a medical with a view to completing a deal worth in the region of £7million, while a statement from Nancy has revealed they have agreed a fee for Haidara’s switch to the Magpies.