Yanga-Mbiwa: Not joining AC Milan was a huge blow

Sep 7, 2012 10:25:00 AM

The Frenchman appeared to be on his way to the Serie A giants this summer, but the move eventually fell through, much to his own disappointment

Montpellier defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa has voiced his disappointment with the collapse of his proposed move to AC Milan in the summer transfer window.

The Rossoneri had earmarked the France international as the perfect replacement for Thiago Silva, but failed to reach an agreement with his current club.

"Milan wanted me, but even though my president was ready to sell me, the deal didn’t go through in the end," Yanga-Mbiwa stated to L'Equipe.

"I was really disappointed about not joining Milan, but our president is the owner of the club and he must be respected.

"Milan made an offer but it was rejected. It was then I understood that it would be difficult for me to leave Montpellier."

The 23-year-old defender then revealed that Arsenal were keen to sign him as well, but added that he only wanted Milan.

"Arsenal also tried to sign me, but I had my attention elsewhere."

Yanga-Mbiwa's current contract with Montpellier is due to expire at the end of the season.