, Newcastle defender attracts January interest from former club

Newcastle defender attracts January interest from former club

Belgian newspaper HLN understands that Anderlecht are looking into the prospect of re-signing centre back Chancel Mbemba from Newcastle United. The defender, who is now away with his national team at the African Cup of Nations, has only made eight appearances for the Magpies this season, his last coming in November.

Jamaal Lescelles and Ciaran Clark has firmly established themselves as Rafa Benitez’s first choice central defence pairing at St James’ Park this season, restricting Mbemba’s opportunities in the side. He made the move from Anderlecht for just over £8million last summer, signed by then manager Steve McClaren.

After breaking through their reserve and youth teams, Mbemba broke into the Anderlecht first team, going on to play over 60 times both domestically and in European competition, leading to many admirers, most notably Newcastle, coming in for his services. With his opportunities seemingly limited at the moment, he could return from international duty playing for his previous club back in Belgium.

Benitez however would only realistically allow the player to leave if a possible replacement could be identified and ultimately recruited. That applies both to a permanent or loan transfer. It isn’t just Mbemba who Anderlecht have looked at possible signing from Newcastle either. Matz Sels, who has also lost his place in Benitez’s regular starting team, is someone who the 33-time Belgian Pro League champions are interested in as well, according to the Evening Chronicle.

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