With one defensive target ruled out, Chancel Mbemba might yet have a future at Newcastle United.
Newcastle’s Chancel Mbemba in action
Chancel Mbemba’s struggles at Newcastle United in the Championship last season surprised many supporters.
The 22-year-old had established himself as a regular starter and a fans’ favourite during his first year on Tyneside, emerging with credit despite the Magpies’ relegation from the Premier League.
Manchester United’s Luke Shaw in action with Newcastle United’s Chancel Mbemba
But Rafa Benitez favoured Ciaran Clark alongside club captain Jamaal Lascelles in the second tier, leaving Mbemba completely out of the first team picture throughout the winter months.
Although the popular defender contributed some impressive performances as Benitez’s side clinched top spot in the closing weeks of the season, links to a host of potential back-line signings this summer had looked set to push Mbemba back down the pecking order.
However, while Eibar’s Florian Lejeune remains a target according to Marca, Ruben Semedo’s agent told TSF that the Sporting CP man is destined for a move to La Liga – with Villarreal linked – rather than St James’ Park, a move that was confirmed by the Yellow Submarines on Wednesday.
Just like Mbemba, Semedo is a right-footed centre-back, comfortable on the ball and strong in the tackle.
Lejeune may come in to challenge for a place in Benitez’s side, but Mbemba – not Semedo – could yet line up alongside the Frenchman.
If he can return to form and fight off competition from Clark and Lascelles, the DR Congo international – also capable of playing at right-back or in midfield – still has something to offer the Magpies.
Newcastle United’s Chancel Mbemba celebrates scoring
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