Newcastle United will deliver their response to a bid from Porto for Chancel Mbemba by the end of this week, according to Mais Futebol.
The Portuguese outlet report that the 23-year-old defender has already agreed personal terms with the club and the deal is now just waiting on approval from Newcastle, which is due by Sunday.
Mais Futebol spoke to agent Fabio Biglia, who said: “Trading is now between the two clubs. We were in Porto this week and the player has a four-season deal. This week there will be a response from Newcastle to the FC Porto proposal. We are convinced that everything will be settled.”
It has been reported in the Mirror that Porto have bid £8million for the 6ft centre-back [Transfermarkt].
Good move for Newcastle United?
Yes.
Rafa Benitez has quite clearly decided that Mbemba is surplus to requirements at St. James’ Park, and there is therefore little point in keeping the DR Congo international around.
It had looked like Anderlecht were to be the club to sign Mbemba, with the Belgian side chasing a double deal including Matz Sels, but Porto look to have far outbid them with their offer.
Newcastle will now be getting a much improved fee for the unwanted defender, who is in turn getting an exciting move to a club set to play in the Champions League next season.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like this one is all but done.
The parties are just waiting on approval from Newcastle, and there is little reason to suggest that will not come.
As mentioned, Newcastle would have been preparing themselves to lose Mbemba for far cheaper, and therefore the club will surely accept Porto’s offer for the 23-year-old before the end of the week.
Once that happens then all that seems to be left is an official announcement, which will likely come next week.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 8/10
