Freiburg's Manzambi reportedly set for record 70 million euro transfer to Aston Villa

Swiss young star Johan Manzambi has seemingly moved into the transfer spotlight, with reports indicating a potential record-breaking move to Aston Villa. The 20-year-old attacking player, currently with Bundesliga club SC Freiburg, is reportedly on the verge of joining the English Premier League side for a fee approaching 70 million euros, including bonuses.

This development appears to be a significant turn in the transfer saga, as Manzambi was also heavily linked with Newcastle United. However, reports suggest that while Freiburg and Newcastle may have agreed on a transfer fee, Manzambi could not reach a contract agreement with the Magpies. Instead, he has reportedly given his commitment to Aston Villa.

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Aston Villa is paying almost 70 million euros including bonus payments, and thus a little more than the transfer fee that Freiburg is said to have negotiated with Newcastle.

For SC Freiburg, this transfer would mark a record income from player sales. Previously, the club's highest outgoing transfer was for attacking player Kevin Schade, who moved to FC Brentford in England in the summer of 2023 for an estimated 25 million euros. Freiburg reportedly also received a similar fee for Merlin Röhl's move to Everton.

Manzambi's performances, including three goals, at the recent World Cup had brought him to prominence. However, he was unable to participate in the round of 16 and quarter-final matches due to a knee injury.

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However, Manzambi could not agree on a contract with the Magpies; instead, he gave his commitment to Villa.