Newcastle United have agreed a £51.5 million deal with Bundesliga club Freiburg for versatile Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi, who is expected to join the Premier League side after the World Cup. The 20-year-old, who has impressed during the tournament, will sign a long-term contract at St James' Park once Switzerland's campaign concludes.
Manzambi's World Cup Performance and Injury
Manzambi has been one of the standout players for Switzerland at the World Cup, but he is currently struggling with a minor knee injury. Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin is uncertain whether Manzambi will recover in time for the quarter-final against Argentina on Sunday. The transfer cannot be finalized while Switzerland remain in the tournament, but Newcastle are confident the deal will go through.
Bruno Guimarães Not for Sale Despite Arsenal Interest
Newcastle remain insistent that they have no intention of selling Bruno Guimarães to Arsenal, despite the Brazil midfielder becoming unsettled following the departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon to Tottenham and Barcelona respectively. According to sources, Arsenal have not yet made a formal offer for Guimarães, but if they bid around £75 million, Newcastle would face a decision. The 28-year-old could see his wages almost double in north London, and much depends on how hard he pushes to leave. A new contract offer could change the situation.
Illan Meslier Joins Arsenal
Arsenal have signed goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer after his departure from Leeds United. The 26-year-old Frenchman made 215 appearances for Leeds, keeping 70 clean sheets. “I’m very happy and very proud to join Arsenal. I cannot wait to show the love that I’ve got for this badge, and I cannot wait to win trophies with this team,” Meslier said. He will wear the number 30 shirt and faces stiff competition from first-choice goalkeeper David Raya, who won the Premier League Golden Glove in 2025-26. Meslier began his career at Lorient and joined Leeds on loan in 2019, helping them secure promotion to the Premier League before making the move permanent.
Callum Wilson Signs for Brentford
Brentford have signed striker Callum Wilson on a one-year contract following his departure from West Ham. The 34-year-old scored seven goals and provided one assist in 35 appearances last season, only 12 of which were starts. At international level, Wilson earned nine caps for England, scoring twice. “There is unbelievable quality in the dressing room, and I’ve met people today who are all very welcoming,” Wilson said.
Newcastle Sign Sean Steur from Ajax
Newcastle have also completed the £23 million signing of 18-year-old midfielder Sean Steur from Ajax on a five-year contract. Steur is widely regarded as Ajax's brightest emerging midfield talent since Frenkie de Jong.
