Newcastle United agree £50m fee in principle for World Cup star

Newcastle United and SC Freiburg have agreed a fee around £50m for midfielder Johan Manzambi.

The Toon look set to secure one of the World Cup's emerging talents, as they look to bolster their squad ahead of next season.

Manzambi has impressed with his performances for Switzerland over the summer, scoring three goals and providing two assists.

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Newcastle have been tracking Manzambi for a while and Sky Germany are now reporting that a deal has been agreed.

A long term contract has been prepared for the 20-year-old, who also drew interest from Aston Villa and others this summer.

Manzambi was one of Newcastle's main targets for this summer before the World Cup even started, although his performances will only have reinforced their desire to sign him.

In 38 appearances in the Bundesliga for Freiburg, he has scored seven goals and laid on five assists, showing his potential at such a young age.

The news will come as welcome relief to Newcastle fans who have had a rough summer so far, particularly when it comes to midfielders.

Sandro Tonali has already departed, joining Spurs for £100m, while club captain Bruno Guimaraes has informed chiefs of his desire to leave and join Arsenal.

While Newcastle are hoping they can persuade Bruno to stick around, saying he is not for sale this summer, Manzambi's arrival would be a huge boost.

The Swiss international would follow the arrival of Dutchman Sean Steur, whose arrival from Ajax was officially announced earlier today.

Other midfield options have been tracked by the Magpies this summer, including Monaco's Lamine Camara.

Meanwhile, further departures are expected, with the club open to offers for the likes of Joe Willock.