Newcastle United have held fresh internal talks on Johan Manzambi, with board members eager to make an instant follow-up to the arrival of Bazoumana Toure. Chronicle Live understands an exciting 'more to come' message has been circulated within St James' Park as they look to spend every penny of the Sandro Tonali money.
Board Members Driving Transfers
Both sporting director Ross Wilson and CEO David Hopkinson are driving hard behind the scenes for incoming business, and focus has switched from sales to purchases in the last few days. Newcastle have had a cautious approach on Manzambi, and the £51.35m fee being demanded by SC Freiburg is slightly higher than the type of fee per player United are looking to spend, but head coach Eddie Howe likes the player and is understood to be pleased that the club are continuing to push for the star.
Manzambi and Trafford on Wish-List
Manzambi and Manchester City stopper James Trafford are said to be high on Newcastle's wish-list, with a third signing hoped for this week after Toure. Manzambi certainly fits into the age profile Newcastle are now firmly centred on as the club look to comply with UEFA's SCR rule book but also get vital business done.
Wilson on Transfer Policy
When speaking on the policy at Newcastle, after the Toure deal, Wilson said: "We're delighted to welcome Bazoumana to Newcastle United. At just 20 years old, he's already a hugely exciting young talent who has progressed year on year. We are sure there's plenty more growth still to come - development we're excited to nurture here at Newcastle. We've been working to get this transfer arranged in recent weeks, whilst Bazoumana has been at the World Cup. Finally, I'd like to thank TSG Hoffenheim for their professionalism in all of our discussions and for the care they've shown him. I know they share our excitement in Bazoumana's quality and potential."
Competition for Manzambi
The likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen have courted Manzambi in the past, but Newcastle are trying to stay ahead on the race for the Swiss star this summer.
