Newcastle opens talks with Freiburg for Manzambi

Newcastle United are preparing to open formal talks with German club SC Freiburg in the coming days as they intensify their pursuit of Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi. The 20-year-old, who has garnered significant attention with three goals for Switzerland at the ongoing World Cup, is reportedly keen on a move to St. James' Park, with Newcastle considered the frontrunner for his signature.

The Premier League club's interest comes amid a midfield rebuild this summer, following the confirmed departure of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur in a deal that could be worth up to £100 million. There is also reported interest from Arsenal in Newcastle's Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães, though the club has insisted he is not for sale. Newcastle have already completed the signing of winger Bazoumana Touré and are also working to finalize a deal for Ajax's 18-year-old midfielder Sean Steur.

Manzambi, who joined Freiburg's academy in 2023 from Swiss club Servette, has developed into a key player for the Bundesliga side. He made 58 appearances for Freiburg, scoring nine times, and contributed 16 goals and assists across the 2025-26 season. Described as a classic box-to-box midfielder,...