Belgian clubs KV Mechelen and Cercle Brugge announce new player signings

Belgian football clubs KV Mechelen and Cercle Brugge have announced new player signings.

KV Mechelen has acquired 22-year-old Norwegian defender Leo Hjelde from English side Sunderland. Hjelde, who has previous experience with Celtic, Leeds United, and Sheffield United, has signed a contract until 2029 with an option for an additional season. Sporting director Tom Caluwé noted that Hjelde is the club's first defensive addition of the summer transfer window.

Cercle Brugge has signed 21-year-old Gambian attacker Abdoulie Manneh on a one-season loan from Swedish club Mjällby AIF, which includes an option to purchase. Manneh joins following a successful season in Sweden where he contributed seven goals and four assists to Mjällby's league title win.