Johan Manzambi (foto: Getty Images)
Newcastle looked set to sign Johan Manzambi, but Aston Villa have convinced the Swiss midfielder to choose Villa Park in a major transfer twist.
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Newcastle United appeared to be on the verge of securing one of Europe's brightest young talents, but Aston Villa have dramatically turned the transfer race in their favour. Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi is now expected to complete a move to Villa Park after changing his preferred destination.
According to reports from England, Newcastle had already reached an agreement with Freiburg over the transfer fee. However, the 20-year-old refused to rush his decision and delayed giving the green light. Aston Villa used that opportunity to intensify negotiations and successfully convinced the player that Birmingham offered the best environment for the next stage of his career.
The biggest winners financially are Freiburg. The Bundesliga club is expected to receive around €70 million for one of the most highly rated young midfielders in European football.
Manzambi's value has risen sharply after an impressive 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with Switzerland. He scored three goals, including a brace against Bosnia and Herzegovina and another strike against Canada, helping Switzerland reach the quarter-finals with a series of mature performances.
His club form had already attracted interest from several Premier League sides. Last season, Manzambi made 47 appearances for Freiburg, scoring seven goals and contributing nine assists as the German side reached the Europa League final. Ironically, it was the final against Aston Villa that reportedly convinced the Premier League club they had to sign him.
Money was never the main obstacle for Newcastle. The club was prepared to match Freiburg's demands, but doubts reportedly grew over whether Manzambi genuinely wanted to move to St James' Park. Newcastle officials travelled to Germany last week hoping to complete the transfer, but after negotiations stalled, they began exploring alternative targets.
Manzambi started his career at Servette before joining Freiburg, where he established himself as one of the Bundesliga's most exciting young midfielders. Since arriving in Germany, he has made 58 appearances, scoring eight goals and providing 11 assists, earning a reputation as one of Europe's fastest-rising talents.