Montpellier defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa has signed a lucrative new deal at the club that runs until 2015, ruling out a January move to the Premier League.

Arsene Wenger was reportedly very keen on signing the defender in the upcoming transfer window, along with Newcastle United and AC Milan, but they will now have to look elsewhere after the French champions snapped up their star man.

The 23-year-old central defender may well have been the answer to Arsenal’s problems as Wenger’s side continue to struggle at the back.

"Montpellier and the club's board are very pleased to announce the contract extension of captain Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa,” A club statement read, as told by Sky Sports.

"His deal was due to expire in June 2013, but the France international has chosen to continue the adventure here for a further two seasons. He is now linked to MHSC until June 2015."