Aston Villa has secured the signing of Johan Manzambi from Freiburg in a club-record deal. The midfielder’s transfer is valued at approximately £59.5m, including add-ons. This move surpasses Villa’s previous record of £50m paid for Amadou Onana in 2024. Manzambi, a 20-year-old Switzerland international, was a prominent player during the recent World Cup, where he scored three goals as Switzerland reached the quarter-finals.
Manzambi had reportedly agreed to personal terms with Newcastle, who had a £49m deal in place for the player. However, Villa’s late offer and the prospect of Champions League football were key factors in his decision to join the Birmingham-based club. Manzambi’s arrival marks Villa’s first signing of the summer transfer window.
Manzambi’s Impact and Journey to Villa Park
Manzambi’s journey to Villa Park follows a breakout season with Freiburg. He registered nine goals and as many assists in 58 appearances in all competitions for the Bundesliga club. His performances earned him the Europa League Young Player of the Season award, as he helped Freiburg reach the final of the competition, where they were defeated 3-0 by Aston Villa in Istanbul.
During his time at Freiburg, Manzambi made his first-team debut for the club in August 2024. In the 2024-25 season, he made 11 Bundesliga appearances, contributing two goals and one assist. The subsequent season saw him score seven goals and provide eight assists as Freiburg finished seventh in the Bundesliga and advanced to the Europa League final.
His impressive form continued into the World Cup, where he scored three goals. He notably scored twice against Bosnia-Herzegovina and also scored and assisted against Canada. Manzambi missed Switzerland’s quarter-final defeat to Argentina.
Manzambi’s move to Aston Villa comes as the club addresses its midfield. The transfer follows the departure of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United for £35m and the lengthy absence of Amadou Onana due to a serious knee injury sustained at the World Cup with Belgium. Villa, who are the current Europa League holders, are also reportedly close to a £38m deal for Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes.
Freiburg’s Perspective on the Transfer
Freiburg’s sporting director, Jochen Saier, commented on Manzambi’s departure, stating that the journey from the U19s to the Europa League final was special for both the player and the club. Saier indicated that after intensive discussions, both sides would benefit from the reached solution. He praised Manzambi’s exceptional performances, noting that he helped shape their style of play.
Manzambi spent three and a half years at Freiburg, joining their youth setup in 2023 after time in the academy of Swiss side Servette. His departure marks a significant moment for Freiburg, as the fee represents a club-record sale for them.
The midfielder’s ability to operate in multiple positions is expected to bolster Villa’s squad ahead of their return to Champions League football. Manzambi made his senior international debut in the summer of 2025 and has since played times for his country.
Manzambi is expected to undergo a medical on Thursday ahead of finalising his move.
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Source: skysports.com
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”