adminNewcastle United are hoping to strengthen their squad during the summer transfer window and have reportedly identified Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi as a key target.
According to Italian transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle held an interest in the Freiburg star before his impressive performances at the 2026 World Cup.
The 20-year-old midfielder enjoyed a breakthrough season at club level, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 27 appearances as Freiburg secured a seventh-place Bundesliga finish.
His side also reached the semi-finals of the German Cup and progressed to the Europa League final before suffering a 3-0 defeat against Aston Villa.
Manzambi was included in Switzerland’s World Cup squad and quickly made his mark. He scored twice in the group-stage victory over Bosnia before scoring again and providing an assist in a 2-1 win against Canada.
The versatile midfielder continued to attract attention after producing an impressive assist in Switzerland’s round-of-32 victory over Algeria.
Speculation surrounding a potential move to Newcastle has increased throughout the tournament, with reports claiming the Magpies have already held talks with Freiburg on agreement over a possible deal.
Romano has now revealed that Newcastle are preparing their first official bid and are hoping to repeat the quick transfer strategy they used for Bundesliga talents Nick Woltemade and Bazoumana Toure.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said:
> “Talking about players who are at the World Cup, we also have to mention Manzambi, this very talented player from Switzerland, five goal contributions, scoring, providing assist, one of the most interesting talents appearing on scene from the 2026 World Cup. For Manzambi, what I can tell you is that Newcastle are preparing their first official bid.
> They already had some contacts on players’ side over the recent weeks, Newcastle were already scouting the player, then his performances at the World Cup, is obviously contributing to accelerate the process.
> Freiburg are going to ask for important money, so it’s not going to be a cheap deal, but Newcastle love to get players from Germany and in a surprising way, they did that with Woltemade, closed in 24 hours, they did that with Bazoumana Touré, closed in 24 hours, and now they are trying the same also with Manzambi from Freiburg.
> So the Switzerland talent is a top target for Newcastle. Again, we have to see, because Freiburg want to wait a little bit, why the deal was not closed this fast? Because Freiburg want to wait to ask more money, game after game, and also because they feel that maybe other clubs could join the race if the player keeps performing well. But Newcastle are ready to push.”
Manchester United have also been linked with an interest in Manzambi and are currently assessing their midfield options ahead of the new season.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
