This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.
Newcastle United are stepping up their pursuit of Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
The talkSPORT reporter claims that the Magpies are “optimistic” they can secure the signature of the Swiss international, with the club in “advanced talks” for the player.
Most Read on Newcastle United News
Manzambi would be brought in to shore up a midfield that has recently lost Sandro Tonali to Tottenham.
A fee worth up to £100m was agreed with Spurs for the Italian international, who is the second high-profile player (after Anthony Gordon) to leave St James’ Park this summer.
What do fans need to know about Manzambi?
The 20-year-old does not have a great deal of experience behind him. He broke into Freiburg’s first team at the back end of the 2024/25 campaign, and he was a regular starter for the Bundesliga side last season.
Manzambi has put in some extremely impressive performances over the last year as Freiburg finished 7th and reached the Europa League final.
The likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal have kept track of his progress, but Newcastle are the only team currently prepared to make a formal bid for the player, with his valuation set at around £42m.
Manzambi is ostensibly a no.8, but he can play in more advanced positions if needed, having scored 7 goals and provided 9 assists in 47 appearances during the 2025/26 season.
Get a brand new Newcastle United 26/27 match home shirt from JD Sports here
Newcastle United could sign a second midfielder
Strengthening the middle of the park appears to be a priority for manager Eddie Howe. In addition to Manzambi, it is believed that the Magpies have discussed a move for Monaco’s Lamine Camara.
With Senegal having crashed out of the World Cup after losing to Belgium in the round of 32 on Wednesday night, it is likely that negotiations will be ramped up over the coming days.
Want more news on Newcastle? Add Newcastle United News as a preferred source on Google