Remy Cabella
Remy Cabella [Reuters]

Manchester United have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of signing Remy Cabella after Montpellier president Louis Nicollin advised him against joining Newcastle United.

The 23-year-old was close to joining the Tyneside club in January after the midfielder's father admitted that Cabella would sign for Newcastle. However, no deal took place in the mid-season transfer window, leaving the door open for United to make an approach in the summer.

The Ligue 1 outfit's chief has revealed Montpellier will let Cabella leave the club. Nicollin has urged his star player to pick between United, Arsenal, Chelsea or Manchester City as his future destination rather than signing for Newcastle.

"Would I advise him against joining Newcastle? Yes, definitely. Arsenal, why not. For my dear Yanga-Mbiwa, Newcastle was not Eldorado. If Newcastle would offer £20m, and Arsenal £5m? I think I would not sell him. I am capable of doing that. I won't prevent him, but I think he is not made for that," the Express quoted Nicollin as saying.

"We promised to let him leave. We will try to advise him to not leave for anywhere. Is Newcastle not a good destination? Don't make me laugh. In England you have to go to Arsenal, Chelsea or any of the two Manchester teams."

Meanwhile, Cabella has admitted that a decision over his future will be taken after the end of the season. The French midfielder expressed his desire in playing for United after claiming a move to Old Trafford would be a dream for any player.

"We'll see in May when it will be discussed. For now I am with Montpellier. It is a trust agreement. The price? It is the president who decides. Manchester United? You must ask my father who cares for me," Cabella explained.

"Until there is something serious, I will say nothing. It is also a matter of respect for my club and Mr. Nicollin [Montpellier president]. But Manchester United is always a dream for any player," he added.

Cabella has scored 19 goals and registered five assists in 26 league appearances for Montpellier this season.

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