Newcastle agree deal with Freiburg for Swiss-Congolese Johan Manzambi

Newcastle United have taken a major step towards securing the signing of Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi after reaching an agreement with Freiburg over a €60 million package.

The deal, which includes performance-related add-ons, represents a significant investment from the Magpies as they look to strengthen their squad with one of Europe’s most highly rated young midfielders.

Freiburg have approved the proposed transfer framework, allowing Newcastle’s hierarchy to open direct discussions with Manzambi and his representatives over personal terms.

The 20-year-old has been focused on his World Cup commitments with Switzerland, but he has remained open to talks over a potential move to St James’ Park. Despite currently managing a minor knee issue that has placed his availability for Sunday’s quarter-final against Argentina in doubt, Manzambi has given encouragement to Newcastle over a switch to England.

Sources indicate the midfielder has verbally agreed to join Eddie Howe’s side, with the remaining details of his contract expected to be resolved without major complications.

Manzambi chooses Tyneside despite Premier League interest

Although Aston Villa had emerged as another potential destination, Manzambi appears to have settled on Newcastle as the next stage of his career.

Villa’s interest increased after midfielder Andre Onana suffered a knee ligament injury while representing Belgium at the World Cup, forcing manager Unai Emery to reconsider his summer recruitment plans.

Manchester United were also linked with the Swiss international but have since moved closer to signing Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos in a £50 million deal while continuing their pursuit of Atalanta’s Ederson.

Newcastle’s confidence in completing the transfer has grown after securing permission from Freiburg to negotiate with the player, although formal talks, a medical examination and final contractual agreements are still required before the move can be completed.

There is a possibility the medical could take place during the ongoing World Cup, following examples of players finalising transfers while still on international duty. However, Manzambi has previously expressed a desire not to allow transfer discussions to interfere with his involvement with Switzerland.

From Servette academy to World Cup stage

Born in Geneva, Manzambi began his football journey in Switzerland with Servette before moving to Freiburg’s development system in 2023.

He broke into the Bundesliga side’s first team in August 2024 and has since established himself as a key figure, making 58 senior appearances and scoring nine goals.

His performances have earned recognition at international level, with Switzerland trusting him on the biggest stage at the World Cup. Newcastle’s move reflects their strategy of targeting emerging talent capable of making an immediate impact while developing into a long-term asset.

The Magpies view Manzambi as a midfielder with the technical ability, physical strength and versatility required to compete in the Premier League.

Newcastle accelerate summer recruitment drive

Manzambi is not the only young talent Newcastle are closing in on this summer, with the club also finalising a deal for Ajax midfielder Sean Steur.

The 18-year-old recently travelled to Tyneside for a medical and discussions over personal terms, with his transfer expected to be officially confirmed soon.

The Magpies have already strengthened their squad with the arrivals of goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Reims and winger Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim as part of a wider recruitment strategy focused on adding promising players with significant growth potential.

The potential arrival of Manzambi, however, represents the statement move of Newcastle’s window so far, with the club prepared to invest heavily in securing a player they believe can become a central figure in their midfield for years to come.