Manchester United and Newcastle United are set to battle for the signature of Switzerland international Johan Manzambi, who has impressed at the World Cup in the United States. According to reports, Newcastle are currently in pole position to secure the 20-year-old Freiburg midfielder.
Manzambi's World Cup Performance and Valuation
Manzambi has registered three goals and two assists at the World Cup, attracting interest from several Premier League clubs. During the 2025/26 season, he contributed to 16 goals for Freiburg, playing both in midfield and more advanced roles. Sky Sports Germany reports that Freiburg have placed a £51 million valuation on the player, looking to capitalise on his elevated profile.
Newcastle's Advantage After Tonali Sale
Newcastle are searching for a central midfielder following the £100 million sale of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham. According to The Daily Mail, Newcastle are leading the chase for Manzambi, with financial aspects not thought to be problematic. Manzambi featured 25 times in midfield for Freiburg last season, making him a potential successor to Tonali.
Manchester United also maintain a long-standing interest in Manzambi, but their immediate priority is reportedly Alex Scott. United were in contention for Tonali before concluding that the transfer fee and wage demands were too high. However, Tonali himself indicated that he would have chosen Tottenham regardless, stating upon his announcement: "I'm very happy to be here. When I arrived at the club today, it felt fantastic. People said about there being four or five clubs - there was only one."
Other Transfer Developments at Manchester United
Manchester United are close to signing Atalanta's Ederson, with the move delayed due to his late inclusion in Brazil's World Cup squad. Financial reasons also prevented United from signing Elliot Anderson, who moved from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City for £116 million. Mateus Fernandes opted for a move to Spurs over United, and West Ham's Crysencio Summerville is on United's radar, with Fulham and Chelsea also interested following West Ham's relegation.
