Aston Villa clinch Johan Manzambi from Freiburg for £60m

Aston Villa are poised to secure the signing of Swiss international midfielder Johan Manzambi after reaching a verbal agreement with both the player and his German club, SC Freiburg, in a transfer valued at over 60 million pounds. The move, confirmed on July 13, 2026, represents a significant coup for the Midlands club, which successfully hijacked a deal that had been in place between Freiburg and Newcastle United.

Newcastle had previously agreed to a 52 million pound fee with Freiburg for the 20-year-old but were unable to finalize personal terms with Manzambi and his representatives. This allowed Aston Villa to enter negotiations and ultimately secure a long-term contract with the player, who reportedly favored a move to Villa Park. The collapse of Newcastle's pursuit marks another instance of the club missing out on a primary transfer target after reaching an agreement with a selling club.

Villa's urgency in the transfer market increased following a knee ligament injury to midfielder Amadou Onana. The club accelerated its efforts to bring in reinforcements, particularly as it prepares for a demanding season that includes participation in the UEFA Champions League. Villa's...