Chancel Mbemba to leave Porto due to debate over his real age

A 2013 investigation revealed that four different birth dates had been used for Mbemba throughout his career

Former Newcastle United defender Chancel Mbemba will not be offered a new deal by his current club FC Porto following reports of a debate surrounding his age. Mbemba, who played for the Magpies between 2015 and 2018 is believed to be 27 years old, however according to Portuguese outlet Corriero de Manha, the DR Congo international had allegedly told friends he was born in 1990 - which would make him 31. The defender's age was previously questioned back in 2013, when it was revealed that four different birth dates had been associated with Mbemba throughout his career. The investigation was made following Mbemba's move from his native Congo to Belgian side Anderlecht in 2012, with a member of the Congolese Football Federation revealing that the birth date of Mbemba was changed to allow him to register him to play at the 2012 London Olympics During his time at Newcastle, Mbemba took bone tests upon signing for the club which claimed he was born in the year 1994 - the year that he himself says he was born. In an interview with The Mirror back in 2015, Mbemba confirmed he had taken physical tests. He said: "I got bone tests done and, as me and my friends all know, the results prove what my age is. "I just go out and play football, no misinformation. A lot has been said about my birthdate and the different ages. I proved exactly what the truth is.

"People in Africa know, me and my family, friends and anyone who knows Chancel Mbemba knows I was born on August 8th, 1994. That is all that matters.

"Sometimes in Africa when people see someone doing well they try to bring them down or harm they career.

"I am not that kind of person, I have my friends and family and I don't have any harmful thoughts in my heart or in my head. All that should matter to people is what I do on the pitch."

The latest news has led to his current club feeling reluctant to offer the Congolese international a new deal beyond this summer, while AC Milan, who were rumoured to be interested in a transfer, are now also unwilling to enter talks. Related links:

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