Aston Villa are expected to complete the signing of Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi on Thursday after the Switzerland international effectively confirmed his move following the World Cup.
The 20-year-old is set to become one of Villa's marquee signings of the summer after an outstanding tournament, with the deal expected to be worth €64 million including bonuses.
FootballPlace understands Manzambi will undergo a medical before signing a five-year contract at Villa Park.
Manzambi all but confirms Villa move
According to reports from France, Manzambi inadvertently revealed the transfer after Switzerland's World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina.
The midfielder was reportedly approached by Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano MartÃnez after the final whistle.
When asked if he was heading to Villa, Manzambi simply replied: "Yes."
The conversation has fuelled expectations that the transfer is already agreed, with only the final formalities remaining before the move is officially announced.
Medical scheduled as deal nears completion
Reports suggest Manzambi will arrive in England in the coming hours before completing his medical on Thursday.
Villa are expected to pay €64 million, including performance-related bonuses, for one of the breakout stars of this summer's World Cup.
The Swiss international had also attracted strong interest from Newcastle United, who viewed him as a potential replacement for Sandro Tonali. However, Aston Villa accelerated negotiations in recent days and now appear set to win the race for his signature.
Villa rebuilding midfield after major departures
Manzambi's arrival comes at an important time for Unai Emery.
Villa have been forced into a midfield rebuild following Youri Tielemans' move to Manchester United, while Amadou Onana is expected to miss much of the season with a serious knee injury. Douglas Luiz has also returned to Juventus after his loan spell.
The club are not expected to stop with Manzambi either.
Villa continue to be linked with Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara, with reports suggesting a €30 million bid could also be submitted as Emery looks to strengthen his options before the new campaign begins.
Key Points
- Aston Villa are expected to complete Johan Manzambi's signing on Thursday.
- The midfielder will reportedly sign a five-year contract.
- Villa will pay around €64 million including bonuses.
- Manzambi emerged as one of the World Cup's standout young players.
- Unai Emery is rebuilding his midfield following several departures.
What's next?
Manzambi is expected to complete his medical before Aston Villa officially announce the transfer. Attention could then turn to further midfield reinforcements, with Gabriel Sara still firmly on the club's radar as Emery continues reshaping his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
Will Johan Manzambi prove to be Aston Villa's statement signing of the summer, or do the club still need another midfielder alongside him?
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