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Newcastle finalise £50m agreement to outmanoeuvre Aston Villa for Freiburg and Switzerland midfielder
Deepa Krishnaswamy | July 10, 2026 12:54 AM CST

Newcastle United have reportedly concluded a £50 million deal to secure the services of Freiburg’s promising Switzerland international Johan Manzambi, edging out Premier League competitors Aston Villa in the process.

Newcastle complete Manzambi signing

As per Sky Sport, the Magpies have reached a full agreement with Freiburg for the transfer of Manzambi, with the total package valued at approximately €60 million (£51 million). This fee marks the highest sale ever recorded by the Bundesliga side. Newcastle are presently ironing out the final aspects of the contract with the 20-year-old midfielder’s representatives to ensure the move is sealed without delay.

Villa fall short in pursuit

Aston Villa were also keenly interested in acquiring Manzambi to bolster their midfield ranks. Manager Unai Emery had been actively seeking reinforcements following a serious cruciate ligament injury sustained by his key player, Amadou Onana. However, Newcastle’s proactive approach in the transfer market has allowed them to move ahead of Villa and secure the player’s signature.

World Cup heroics boost reputation

Manzambi’s stock has risen sharply following his remarkable displays for Switzerland at the 2026 World Cup. In their 4-1 group-stage triumph over Bosnia-Herzegovina, he made history by becoming the youngest player ever in the tournament to score two or more goals in a single match as a substitute. Over the course of the competition, he registered an impressive three goals and two assists in four appearances, greatly enhancing his market value.

Manzambi strengthens Newcastle’s midfield

After completing his World Cup commitments, Manzambi is expected to travel to Tyneside for his medical tests before officially joining Eddie Howe’s squad. The young midfielder arrives following an impressive domestic season, during which he featured in 27 Bundesliga matches and netted five goals. His addition is anticipated to inject creativity and dynamism into Newcastle’s midfield, particularly after Sandro Tonali’s recent move to Tottenham Hotspur.


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