Johan Manzambi is of interest to Manchester United and Newcastle after both clubs were impacted by Sandro Tonali’s move to Tottenham
Newcastle United have reportedly been informed they are ahead of Manchester United in the pursuit of World Cup sensation Johan Manzambi. The Switzerland international has registered three goals and two assists in the United States, attracting attention from several Premier League sides.
The Freiburg player, who contributed to 16 goals during the 2025/26 campaign, has particularly impressed on the world stage. His current club are naturally looking to capitalise on his elevated profile and have placed a £51million valuation on him, according to Sky Sports Germany.
The Magpies are keeping close tabs on Manzambi’s situation and should Newcastle formalise a pursuit, they would almost certainly be favourites to secure the 20-year-old.
That is because, according to The Daily Mail, Eddie Howe’s side are leading the chase for his signature, with the financial aspects involving both the player and club not thought to be problematic.
It has also been reported that United remain in contention for him, having maintained a long-standing interest, though their immediate priority is said to be Alex Scott.
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Newcastle are also searching for a new central midfielder following the sale of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100m. Despite operating in a more advanced role at the World Cup, Manzambi featured 25 times for Freiburg in midfield and could therefore serve as Tonali’s successor.
United were in contention for Tonali before concluding that the transfer fee and his wage demands were prohibitively expensive. Judging by comments from the man himself, even if they had declared a concrete interest, he would have still joined Spurs.
Upon being announced as a new signing by the club, he said: “I’m very happy to be here. When I arrived at the club today, it felt fantastic. People said about there being four or five clubs – there was only one. I spoke to the head coach for close to two hours about the club, the fans, the stadium and our football.
“It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham. I’ve played against Tottenham a few times and always found a great atmosphere made by great fans. I can’t wait to start the season.”
United do at least look set to sign Atalanta star Ederson. The move looked set to go through before the World Cup but his late inclusion to the Brazil squad delayed the second part of his medical.
Financial reasons played a role in United not signing Elliot Anderson, whom Nottingham Forest sold to Manchester City for a remarkable £116million.
Mateus Fernandes also opted for a move to Spurs over United with West Ham receiving £85million for his departure.
His former club team-mate Crysencio Summerville is also on the radar of Old Trafford chiefs with Fulham and Chelsea among the clubs looking to take advantage of the Hammers’ relegation.
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