Montpellier centre-back Yanga-Mbiwa has admitted he “rejected Arsenal for Milan” during the summer and still hopes for a switch to the Rossoneri.
Montpellier centre-back Yanga-Mbiwa has admitted he “rejected Arsenal for Milan” during the summer and still hopes for a switch to the Rossoneri.
In an interview with French daily L'Equipe, the 23-year-old spoke of his affection for Milan and his disappointment when a move did not materialise.
“[Adriano] Galliani came forward to Montpellier, but the offer was not convincing enough. I realised early on that I would probably not leave the club in the summer.
“Arsenal tried for me, but all I ever wanted was Milan. I was very disappointed with how it ended, but the President [Louis Nicollin] is my boss and I have to respect his decision.”
Massimiliano Allegri’s side reportedly had a €6m bid rejected by Nicollin, with the French entrepreneur insisting that he would not move for less than €8m.
The French international could make the leap to Serie A as soon as January, as he is adamant he will not sign a new contract, with his current deal expiring in June 2013.