Newcastle United confident of sealing a deal for Freiburg starlet Johan Manzambi | OneFootball

Newcastle United are confident they can secure a deal to bring Johan Manzambi to St James’ Park.

Manzambi’s standout performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have sent his market value soaring, and the Magpies are now viewed as frontrunners, having intensified negotiations with Freiburg

The 20-year-old ‘all-rounder’ has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the tournament in North America, firing Switzerland to the top of Group B with three goals and an assist in just 129 minutes of group-stage action.

As Switzerland prepare for a Round of 32 clash against Algeria, Newcastle are eager to finalise a deal and prevent any late hijack. Freiburg value their midfield prodigy at around £42 million.

Much of Manzambi’s appeal lies in his versatility. During the 2025/26 season, he was a linchpin for Julian Schuster’s Freiburg side, recording seven goals and six assists in 47 appearances across all competitions while helping the club reach the UEFA Europa League final and secure a top-seven finish.

While often deployed as a dynamic box-to-box midfielder in Germany, he has thrived on the flanks for Switzerland thanks to his explosive pace and clinical edge.

Midfield recruitment has become a top priority for Newcastle this summer following Sandro Tonali’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur for a whopping £100m and continued uncertainty over Bruno Guimaraes’ future, with Arsenal circling.

Newcastle have already wrapped up a deal for Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure as their second signing of the summer and look set to add a third in the coming days.