Belgian duo Standard Liege and Anderlecht have joined the hunt to sign Newcastle enforcer Chancel Mbemba, according to Nieuswblad.
The Belgian newspaper claims that the two top-flight clubs are interested in landing the 23-year-old in the summer transfer window.
It is understood that Magpies boss Rafael Benitez is willing to sell the defender after using him just 11 times this season and the club are expected to take a hit on the £8million they originally paid for him.
However, the report details that the powerhouse centre-back would view a return to Belgium, where he previously played for Anderlecht, as a backwards step in his career.
The hunt for Mbemba certainly appears to be accelerating as the Chronicle have previously reported that Scottish champions Celtic are eyeing a move for the 23-year-old too.
Good move for Newcastle?
Newcastle will certainly miss Mbemba’s versatility if he departs St James’ Park, as he has filled in at both centre-back and left-back in the past.
However, beyond that the Congo international has been unable to make a serious impression this season and likes miles behind the current defensive options in the starting XI.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 4/10
Likely to happen?
Mbemba’s departure from the club seems fairly likely over the summer, but it appears the Belgium is not a preferable destination for the player.
The young centre-back has already caught the eye of Celitc and it would be no surprise to see more suitors arrive.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 4/10
