Arsenal revive their interest in Montpellier star Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa

Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa is one of the best defenders in Europe

Arsenal are believed to have revived their interest in Montpellier captain Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa following the French side’s elimination from the Champions League.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is a long-term admirer of the versatile defender, who shot to fame last season after leading Montpellier to the Ligue 1 title.

The 23-year-old has since been courted by Chelsea and AC Milan, but it’s Arsenal who remain the front-runners, and have continued their intense scouting of the player this season.

However, Montpellier have twice warned interested parties off Yanga-Mbiwa, insisting he will stay with the club competing in the Champions League for the first time in their history.

But their exit last night has now opened the door for a January exit, and with Yanga-Mbiwa refusing to commit to the club, he should be available at a bargain price.

Arsenal have again shown a key interest, with their defensive problems showing no sign of ending, while Johan Djourou and Sebastien Squillaci have both asked leave the Emirates in the new year.

Yanga-Mbiwa is contracted to Montpellier until 2015.