NEWCASTLE. Newcastle United have set their sights on SC Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi as Eddie Howe moves to address a deepening midfield crisis, with the 20 year old Swiss international emerging as a prime target amid growing uncertainty over Sandro Tonali’s future at St James’ Park .
The Magpies’ recruitment staff have been monitoring the Bundesliga breakout star closely, according to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, with the midfielder’s explosive performances at the World Cup accelerating interest from Tyneside . Manzambi has lit up the tournament in North America, scoring three goals and providing an assist across three group stage appearances, including a decisive brace off the bench against Bosnia and Herzegovina .
His 74th minute introduction against Bosnia proved transformative, as the Geneva born talent volleyed home within two minutes of his arrival before adding a second in stoppage time to seal a 4-1 victory . At 20 years and 247 days, Manzambi became the youngest substitute in World Cup history to score a brace, further enhancing a reputation that has already attracted interest from across Europe’s elite .
The timing of Newcastle’s interest is no coincidence. Tonali has reportedly pledged to join Tottenham Hotspur, who have seen two bids rejected but are preparing an £85 million package that could convince the Tyneside club to sell . With Bruno Guimaraes also attracting attention from Arsenal, Howe’s need for midfield reinforcements has become pressing .
Freiburg, however, are in no mood to negotiate. The Bundesliga side extended Manzambi’s contract until 2030 last June, placing them in a commanding position as suitors circle . Their valuation of approximately £42 million reflects a remarkable 12 months for the teenager, who made 47 appearances across all competitions last season, contributing seven goals and nine assists while helping Freiburg reach the Europa League final .
His emergence has been tracked by Bayern Munich, with Thomas Müller publicly endorsing the youngster as a player the German champions should target . Yet Premier League clubs are understood to be leading the chase, with Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal all closely monitoring his development .
Manzambi’s versatility adds to his appeal. Primarily a central midfielder, he has operated effectively as a No.6, No.10, and even further forward, having been handed the No.9 shirt for Switzerland . His dribbling ability and sharp passing range have drawn comparisons to Paul Pogba, while his box to box engine makes him an ideal fit for Howe’s demanding system .
“I think I’m flexible in how I play,” Manzambi told FIFA ahead of the tournament. “Midfield is my natural position, but I can play as a No.6 or a No.10” .
His rise has been swift. A product of Servette’s academy, he joined Freiburg’s Under 19 squad in 2023 before breaking into the first team. Last season marked his true breakthrough, establishing himself as an undisputed starter under Julian Schuster . His contributions earned him the inaugural UEFA Europa League Young Player of the Season award, as well as Swiss Young Player of the Year honours .
Financial Fair Play constraints mean Newcastle must structure any deal carefully, though the club have demonstrated a willingness to act decisively in this window. Talks are expected to accelerate once Switzerland’s World Cup campaign concludes, with the Swiss set to face Algeria in the Round of 32 . For a fanbase that has watched key players linked with exits, the pursuit of one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders offers a timely reminder of the club’s ambition.
