NEWCASTLE UNITED have confirmed that Anderlecht defender Chancel Mbemba is the latest player to have moved to St James' Park.

The Magpies have received a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) for the player at an FA hearing held earlier today and now the deal is only subject to Mbemba receiving the appropriate visa.

He becomes Newcastle's third signing by Steve McClaren and the 20-year-old DR Congo international has agreed a five-year deal.

Mbemba said: "I'm very, very happy to be here. This is the biggest league in the world and I'm very proud to wear the shirt for this team and play in this league.

“I'm going to do everything I can to help make the supporters happy, to help out my team-mates and to bring something extra to the team.

"I know the team very well. I've watched the Premier League and I know this is a massive team with big players and with a great coach.

“I've come here to Newcastle United because it's a very good move in my career to play for such a famous club. I am excited for the season ahead."

And McClaren said: "We are delighted that Chancel is now a Newcastle United player after it took a little longer than we had hoped.

“He is a proven performer at the highest level, he’s powerful, combative and will add quality to our defence. He also has an eye for goal which is an extra asset for us.

"We'll get him integrated into the squad quickly once he's with us. Unfortunately due to the time it takes to process the visa application that won’t be in time for our final friendly on Saturday, but our focus will be to make sure he will be ready and available as soon as possible.

"I'm sure our supporters will take to him very quickly, he's the sort of player fans will enjoy watching."