Reports CL: Villa outbids Newcastle for Manzambi in €70m deal

Reports CL confirm that Johan Manzambi’s Premier League move is set to cost just under €70 million, with Aston Villa outbidding Newcastle United for the Swiss World Cup breakout star. The €70 million package includes the base fee and potential bonuses, and the transfer is expected to be finalized imminently.

Newcastle United had earlier agreed with SC Freiburg on a €60 million fee, but a full agreement with the player’s camp was still missing at that stage. The Magpies’ early negotiations highlighted their interest in the Swiss international.

Villa took advantage of that hesitation, with matching reports from Athletic' and Sky indicating the Europa League winners and SC Freiburg have now agreed on an overall package worth just under €70 million, including base fee and bonuses. The Bundesliga club left the final decision on his next destination to the player.

Manzambi is said to have preferred Aston Villa for sporting reasons, under successful coach Unai Emery, where he can continue to develop in Birmingham and play in the Champions League for the first time. The move offers the Swiss midfielder a chance to showcase his talent on Europe’s biggest stage.

Newcastle finished the recently concluded English Premier League season in a disappointing 12th place and have recently had to cope with several high‑profile departures. Their intensified pursuit of the Freiburg player reflects a necessity to strengthen the squad.

Villa must also compensate for the loss of midfielder Amadou Onana, who suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury at the World Cup. The €70 million deal helps the club address that gap in midfield.

Manzambi is now expected to sign a long‑term contract in Birmingham, with the mandatory medical already planned for the near future. The agreement secures his future in the English top flight.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence, ensuring accessibility for English‑speaking readers.