Aston Villa are close to completing a stunning move to sign Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, effectively hijacking a deal that Newcastle appeared to have sewn up at one stage. The Switzerland international is reportedly favouring a switch to Villa Park, and the deal is now being finalised ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Newcastle have reached a comprehensive agreement with Freiburg to secure the signing of highly-rated Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi for a package worth over £50 million. The Magpies have successfully stolen a march on Premier League rivals Aston Villa, who were heavily monitoring the youngster before the Tyneside club moved into pole position.

Newcastle United are ready to accelerate their summer transfer business by opening formal negotiations for Switzerland’s World Cup breakout star Johan Manzambi. The Magpies have identified the Freiburg midfielder as a priority addition to Eddie Howe’s squad as they look to reinvest the significant funds generated by recent high-profile departures from St James' Park.

Thomas Muller has tipped Bayern Munich to monitor Switzerland youngster Johan Manzambi after the Freiburg midfielder starred in a World Cup win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The 20-year-old scored twice off the bench and collected the Man of the Match award, further enhancing his growing reputation following an impressive Bundesliga campaign.