Newcastle sign Chancel Mbemba from Anderlecht pending work permit

The 20-year-old DR Congo defender was granted governing body endorsement (GBE) at a Football Association panel hearing on Thursday, and now needs just visa clearance to launch his Newcastle career.

Mbemba has become Newcastle's third signing of the summer after making the switch from Anderlecht, with head coach Steve McClaren keen to tie up the remaining paperwork quickly.

McClaren said: "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."