Sky Sport reveal Johan Manzambi truth as Newcastle United eye summer signing number three
Newcastle United have held talks over signing Freiberg and Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi,
Freiberg have reportedly upped their asking price for Newcastle United target Johan Manzambi to £52million.
It’s understood the Bundesliga club initially valued Manzambi at £42million, however, the level of interest generated by his World Cup performances has led to a £10million increase.
Manzambi has scored three goals, including a brace against Bosnia & Herzegovina, and registered two assists to help Switzerland advance to the last 16, where they face Colombia on Tuesday.
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It comes off the back of a standout campaign at club level, scoring seven goals and providing the same number of assists to help Freiberg finish seventh in the league and reach the final of the Europa League.
Freiberg up Johan Manzambi asking price
Newcastle are looking to bolster their midfield following the £100million sale of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur and have identified Manzambi, also linked with Manchester United, as a top target.
But as per Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, no agreement is close as Freiberg demand big money for the 20-year-old midfielder.
“Newcastle appreciate Johan Manzambi highly,” Plettenberg wrote on X. “#NUFC have been informed of all the key terms and financial details.
“EXCL DET | However, there is still no club-to-club agreement. Concrete negotiations have not started yet. SC Freiburg are currently demanding up to €60m following his outstanding World Cup performances.
“Several other top clubs are also keen on the 20 y/o promising midfielder, who has impressed for Switzerland at the WC.”
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Fabrizio Romano reported last week that Newcastle were preparing an official bid.
“Newcastle are preparing opening official bid for Switzerland gem Johan Manzambi to be sent soon,” Romano said on X. “Initial contacts made over recent days and proposal to SC Freiburg will follow.
“He’s scored 3 goals, delivered 2 assists in excellent World Cup campaign so far.”
The Magpies have made two summer signings so far. French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen arrived from Stade de Reims for £18million before over the weekend, United confirm the £42million arrival of left winger Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim.
Toure has signed as Anthony Gordon’s replacement after he joined Barcelona for £69million.