Newcastle net Mbemba deal

Mbemba flew to Tyneside on Thursday July 23rd to undergo his medical, which he passed, before putting pen to paper on his five-year contract. He must now acquire the “appropriate visa” before he can finally join the team on the training pitch (again considered a formality).

Democratic Republic of Congo global Memba was also being chased by Atletico Madrid, Borussia Monchengladbach and Wolfsburg – but Newcastle won the race of his suitors.

Born in Kinshasa, Mbemba played youth football for a number of local sides in his homeland before joining Belgian giants Anderlecht in 2011.

“This is the biggest league in the world and I’m very proud to wear the shirt for this team and play in this league”, the DR Congo global defender told Newcastle’s official website.

“I’m very, very happy to be here”.

‘He is a proven performer at the highest level, he’s powerful, combative and will add quality to our defence, ‘ McClaren said.

The 20-year-old arrives for a reported £8 million fee as the Magpies make their first defensive recruit of the summer, subject to being granted the permit, with more potentially to follow as they look to shore up a backline that conceded an eye-watering 61 Premier League goals last season.

“We will get him integrated into the squad quickly once he is with us”.

“I’m sure our supporters will take to him very quickly”.

Mbemba has become Newcastle’s third signing of the pre-season, with head coach Steve McClaren keen to tie up the remaining paperwork to ensure he is available for the team’s Premier League opener against Southampton on August 9. ‘I am excited for the season ahead.

“I know the team very well”.