Aston Villa signs Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi for record £52 million fee

Aston Villa have completed a club‑record transfer for 20‑year‑old Swiss international Johan Manzambi, paying an initial £52 million to German side SC Freiburg with add‑ons potentially raising the sum to £60 million. The midfielder impressed at the 2025‑26 World Cup, scoring three goals and providing two assists for Switzerland, and was named Young Player of the Season after helping Freiburg reach the UEFA Europa League final.

Villa manager Unai Emery expects Manzambi to bolster the midfield with his box‑to‑box style, while fantasy‑football analysts note his high price tag and potential impact on Premier League clubs. The signing marks a major move in the summer transfer window and adds a high‑profile Swiss talent to the English top flight.