Newcastle United’s push for young, high-upside signings has already delivered Bazoumana Toure and Sean Steur, and the club is now trying to add another World Cup standout.
The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope reported on July 6 that Newcastle is working on a deal for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, although the process has not moved as quickly as the club wanted, as Sky Sports’ Keith Downie first reported.
“A deal for Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi is being discussed, but progress has not been as swift
as hoped,” Hope wrote.
Manzambi has turned into a breakout star this summer while representing the Swiss at the World Cup. His performances have raised his profile and increased the risk of more clubs entering the race, with the youngster assisting and scoring more than once.
Hope highlighted a potential roadblock on Newcastle’s path to signing Manzambi, noting that Manchester United has a long-standing interest in the player. However, according to Hope, Newcastle has received encouragement over its current position in the race for the 20-year-old attacking midfielder.
“Newcastle have been told they are at the front of the queue and the numbers involved with the player and his club, Freiburg, should not be an issue, but they thought that about Munoz,” Hope wrote.
In order to avoid another late transfer collapse, as the one involving Munoz, Hope reported that Newcastle’s stance is active rather than hesitant this time.
“Newcastle will push ahead and hope remains that Manzambi will arrive,” Hope wrote.
Fabrizio Romano reported on July 4 that Newcastle was preparing its first official bid for the wonderkid after making contact on the player side and scouting Manzambi during the World Cup.
According to Hope, Manzambi fits the profile that sporting director Ross Wilson is targeting, which is linked to players between 18 and 24 with major room to grow for potential future sales and profit possibilities.
