Newcastle United transfers: Johan Manzambi is on Newcastle’s radar as a potential summer signing.

Newcastle United are preparing an ‘official bid’ for Freiburg and Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 20-year-old scored seven goals and assisted seven in 47 appearances for Freiburg last season as they finished seventh in the Bundesliga while also reaching the Europa League final. The midfielder has continued his strong club form at international level with Switzerland at the World Cup.

Manzambi has played a key role in helping his country reach the last-16 with three goals and two assists in four appearances. Switzerland face Colombia in the last-16 on Tuesday.

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As reported by Sky Sports News, Freiberg are said to value Manzambi at £42million - but his impressive World Cup and competition for his signature could see that price rise.

And when asked about his future during the season, the young midfielder left the door open to a potential exit.

“I honestly don’t know,” Manzambi told Bild. “My contract runs until 2030. We’ll see. Right now, I have to prepare for the World Cup, then we’ll see what the future holds for me.”

Newcastle are interested in the midfielder but will have to strike quickly given interest from elsewhere, further fuelled by his impressive World Cup.

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And now Fabrizio Romano is reporting Newcastle’s pursuit.

“Newcastle are preparing opening official bid for Switzerland gem Johan Manzambi to be sent soon,” Romano said. “Initial contacts made over recent days and proposal to SC Freiburg will follow.

“He’s scored three goals, delivered two assists in excellent World Cup campaign so far.”

Romano reporting Newcastle’s interest will be met with some scepticism after the club looked set to sign Victor Munoz from Osasuna following a transfer pursuit that played out very publicly, only for Liverpool to hijack the deal.

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