Newcastle United agree deal for Anderlecht defender Chancel Mbemba

Newcastle United have agreed to sign DR Congo defender Chancel Mbemba from Anderlecht, subject to a work visa.

Mbemba, 20, agreed personal terms with the Magpies after undergoing a medical at Tyneside, the club announced on their official website.

However, the deal cannot be completed until the FA convenes on 30 July to consider Newcastle's request for a Governing Body Endorsement document, which is required for the DR Congo international to obtain a visa.

Should the deal be finalised, Mbemba will be the third summer arrival at St James's Park after Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum and Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.

"The documentation in relation to the club's application for a Governing Body Endorsement, required in order for Mbemba to obtain a visa, was submitted to the FA on Wednesday morning (22 July)," Newcastle said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, the FA are unable to consider the club's application until Thursday of next week (30 July). The FA advised the club they were not able to convene a panel any sooner.

"The club will provide an update for supporters at the earliest opportunity following the conclusion of the panel hearing."

Meanwhile, Newcastle's patchy pre-season form continued as they were held to a 2-2 draw by League One outfit Sheffield United on 26 July.

Wijnaldum and Siem de Jong scored for the Magpies at Bramall Lane, but their goals were cancelled out by Marc McNulty and Kieron Freeman.

Steve McClaren's side have won just one of their four pre-season matches and suffered a 4-3 loss against MLS side Portland Timbers on 22 July.