Sources: Newcastle's reaction to Man United hijacking Johan Manzambi deal revealed
Newcastle United are not concerned about the possibility of Manchester United hijacking their move for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, sources have told Football Insider.
The Magpies are doing the "groundwork" on a deal to sign the 20-year-old, and are closing in on getting their move over the line.
Manchester United have the Switzerland international on their shortlist of midfield targets, but sources have indicated that they have several targets of higher priority at the moment.
Manzambi's impressive performances at the World Cup have alerted plenty of clubs across Europe, but Newcastle are not worried about another side stealing a march on them.
Eddie Howe and Co. are searching for midfield reinforcements after Sandro Tonali's move to Tottenham was confirmed, and have had Manzambi in their sights for several weeks now.
The youngster notched seven goals and six assists for Freiburg last term, and already has three goals and two assists at this summer's World Cup.
Johan Manzambi set for Premier League move after breakthrough campaign
Manzambi enjoyed his first full campaign as a senior player at Freiburg in 2024-25, and his exploits already look set to earn him a lucrative move to the Premier League.
The starlet netted some big goals for the German side throughout the season, including in their Europa League semi-final win over Braga.
His progress has made clubs across Europe sit up and take notice of him, and his form at the World Cup has only enhanced his reputation even further.
Swiss boss Murat Yakin initially started the youngster from the bench, but he is now a guaranteed starter after a series of influential displays.
He is expected to play a key role in his country's last-16 clash with Colombia on Tuesday night, which Freiburg will be hoping could drive his valuation up even further.
They are already asking for £42m to let their prized asset leave this summer, but that figure has not put off Newcastle at all.
Keith Wyness shares what he's 'heard' about Manzambi
Former Everton and Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider last week that £42m will be enough for Newcastle to land Manzambi this summer.
The Scottish businessman has been hugely impressed by the attacking midfielder's performances at the World Cup, and believes that anything under the £50m mark would be a "good price" for him this summer.
Wyness also outlined that he has "heard" that Manzambi is a "decent character," and will be exactly the kind of player who is likely to respond well to Howe's methods.
Newcastle's transfer business is set to be under serious scrutiny this summer, but Wyness is adamant that Manzambi would be a good buy.