Aston Villa have moved ahead of Newcastle United in the race to sign Switzerland and SC Freiburg star Johan Manzambi, according to Chronicle Live. The 20-year-old had held positive talks with Newcastle last week, including a verbal agreement on wages and the deal with the Bundesliga club, but he would not commit to signing the contract on paper.
Newcastle's Disappointment
Newcastle chiefs were given positive vibes during talks with Manzambi, but his refusal to sign last week raised doubts. The lines of communication have since fallen silent, leading Newcastle to believe the deal could fall through. A source close to the club said: "We thought we had a deal, but he wouldn't put pen to paper. It's disappointing."
Aston Villa's Financial Hurdles
Aston Villa have muscled in on the transfer and hope to complete a deal for Manzambi. However, it is understood that Villa must first tidy up their own financial situation before pushing the button on the deal. Newcastle do have other targets in mind but are disappointed this deal could fall through.
History Repeats Itself
This marks the second time this summer that Newcastle have been denied at the final stages of a transfer. The Victor Munoz deal followed a similar pattern, with the Spaniard saying yes verbally but refusing to sign a contract. Manzambi appears to have given his word to Villa, and Newcastle expect him to go there as things stand.
