Newcastle United have officially unveiled their third signing of the summer DR Congo international Chancel Mbemba Mangulu from RSC Anderlecht.
The 20-year-old put pen-to-paper on a five-year deal, after the clubs agreed a fee in the region of £8.5million, and will reunite with former Anderlecht teammate Aleksandar Mitrovic. He will pocket roughly £25,000-a-week, plus bonuses.
Like Mitrovic, Mbemba is regard as one of the hottest prospects in Europe and probably would have secured a move to a Champions League side if there were not concerns over his age.
He becomes McClaren’s third signing at St James’ Park, succeeding the arrivals of Gini Wijnaldum from PSV and Mitrovic. Mbemba attracted attention from a number of clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Wolfsburg, but it was Newcastle that were prepared to submit the best concrete to the young defender.
Upon signing for the Magpies, Mbemba told the club’s official website:
“I’m very, very happy to be here. 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.
“I’m going to do everything I can to help make the supporters happy, to help out my teammates and to bring something extra to the team.
“I know the team very well. I’ve watched the Premier League and I know this is a massive team with big players and with a great coach.
“I’ve come here to Newcastle United because it’s a very good move in my career to play for such a famous club. I am excited for the season ahead.”
Steve McClaren also had this to say about his new signing:
“We are delighted that Chancel is now a Newcastle United player after it took a little longer than we had hoped.
“He is a proven performer at the highest level, he’s powerful, combative and will add quality to our defence. He also has an eye for goal which is an extra asset for us.
“We will get him integrated into the squad quickly once he is with us. Unfortunately, due to the time it takes to process the visa application that won’t be in time for our final friendly on Saturday, but our focus will be to make sure he will be ready and available as soon as possible.
“I’m sure our supporters will take to him very quickly. He’s the sort of player fans will enjoy watching.”
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