Aston Villa have pulled off one of the biggest transfer twists of the summer after reaching an agreement to sign Johan Manzambi from SC Freiburg, beating Newcastle United to the highly rated midfielder.
Newcastle had previously agreed a deal worth around €60 million with Freiburg and were awaiting the player’s final approval. However, Aston Villa made a late move with an improved package for both the club and the player, convincing the Swiss international to choose Villa Park instead. Reports indicate the overall deal is worth around €70 million, with the transfer now considered complete pending a medical examination and official announcement.
Villa accelerated their pursuit after midfielder Amadou Onana suffered a serious injury, prompting manager Unai Emery to seek an immediate replacement. Manzambi emerged as the club’s top target following an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Freiburg and his standout performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he established himself as one of the tournament’s breakout stars.
The move represents another frustrating setback for Newcastle, who believed they had secured the Swiss midfielder before Aston Villa’s late intervention. Manzambi is expected to undergo his medical in the coming days before being unveiled as Villa’s latest signing ahead of the new Premier League season.
