Newcastle Transfers: Ranking Alan Pardew's 10 Best Signings

6. Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa - £6.7 Million From Montpellier

Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa has become an important player for Newcastle in recent times. Another January arrival, the France international has gone on to establish himself in the starting XI at St James' Park following his big money £6.7 million transfer from Montpellier, making 14 Premier League appearances last season and featuring in all three of the Magpie's league games so far this term. With Steven Taylor suspended for his dismissal against Manchester City, and Mike Williamson sidelined through injury, Mbiwa has been handed a golden opportunity to impress in the first team, and that he has done, keeping two clean sheets so far this season. He's also forged a good relationship with Fabricio Coloccini at the back, and his ability to play anywhere along the back-line makes him just about one of the more useful signings Pardew has ever made.