Aston Villa secures Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi from Freiburg for €60‑70m

Swiss 20‑year‑old midfielder Johan Manzambi, a breakout performer at the 2026 World Cup, was poised to join Newcastle United after the club reached a €60 million agreement with SC Freiburg. Aston Villa intervened, securing a verbal deal with both the player and Freiburg. The transfer fee is reported to be around €60 million plus bonuses, potentially reaching €70 million, making it Freiburg’s most expensive sale.

Newcastle United were left without their target and are now reassessing their midfield options. Manager Eddie Howe is reportedly evaluating alternatives such as Senegal’s Lamine Camara (AS Monaco), Germany’s Felix Nmecha (Borussia Dortmund) and Brazilian Danilo (Botafogo), all of whom have attracted interest from other Premier League clubs. The move is seen as a significant boost for Aston Villa under Unai Emery, while Newcastle must quickly find a replacement to maintain their squad plans.

The deal was confirmed by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano and has been described as a “hijack” of the original Newcastle pursuit.