Everton target confirms he’s now a free-agent

It was Benitez who bombed the 66-time DR Congo international out of Newcastle after all. The Magpies accepted a £7 million bid from Porto back in 2018, one year before the Spaniard finally lost his patience with Mike Ashley’s tight-fistedness.

Four years later, could Mbemba be on his way back to England? An Everton side who punted Benitez out the door and parachuted in Frank Lampard as his replacement are reportedly interested, as reported by A Bola. 

Everton eye up Chancel Mbemba

“It is with great emotion that I announce the end of my contract with FC Porto,” says 27-year-old Mbemba. “I made the decision not to renew my contract and embrace a new challenge.  

“I want to thank the president and coach Sergio Conceicao for believing in me. The medical team for their professionalism, and all the people who work at the Olival training centre. 

“I couldn’t finish without thanking the incredible supporters of the club. Without you, nothing would be possible. It wouldn’t even have the same magic! I will be a dragon forever! Thank you for everything.”

Everton have already brought in James Tarkowski following Burnley’s relegation. But he alone is unlikely to fix a backline that conceded more goals than The Clarets did in 2021/22. 

Mbemba’s affordability, leadership skills and proven Premier League track record is likely to appeal to the Toffees. Especially when you consider the Mbemba of 2022 is a more reliable, commanding centre-half than the one that lost Benitez’s trust at Newcastle in 2018. 

Mbemba played 31 games as Porto cruised to the Portuguese title last season, losing just one match along the way. 

In other news, ‘Watch this player’: Paul Merson believes Spurs have made a ‘great signing’