Newcastle United have gotten one signing done and dusted. Bazoumana Toure has joined the Magpies. It is official, the announcement has been made, and it is no longer a matter of speculation. Now, the focus needs to quickly turn towards what is ahead.
For Newcastle United, that has to be strengthening in the middle of the park. Sandro Tonali has left for Tottenham Hotspur. Toure’s arrival is an exciting one, but at the end of the day, he is a winger, who is most likely viewed as the replacement for Anthony Gordon.
So, the next thing Newcastle United need to do is sign a quality midfielder. Ideally, one would hope for someone proven and with top-level experience. But this summer, it looks like the Magpies are aiming to add some youth to the squad instead.
Johan Manzambi is someone they have been linked with heavily in recent days. But Manchester United are also said to be interested. Is that cause for worry?
Newcastle United’s position in race to sign Johan Manzambi
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United have been told they are at the front of the queue in the race to sign Manzambi and the numbers involved with the player and his club, SC Freiburg, should not be an issue. Manchester United’s midfield priority is Alex Scott of Bournemouth.
That will come as relief to the supporters. That being said, the club need to move quickly. They had thought a move for Victor Munoz was in the bag as well, before Liverpool swooped in late.
When clubs the size of Man Utd are involved, it is always advisable to get a deal done as quickly as possible. And based on Manzambi’s performances at the World Cup, it would not come as a surprise if other clubs come calling as well.
It remains to be seen if Newcastle United can get things over the line over the coming days or not. The fact that Switzerland are still in the World Cup is not helping them.
Newcastle United need more even if Manzambi is signed
Of course, the Magpies might not stop, even if they get a deal for Manzambi done. From the speculation, it does look like they have another midfield addition in their sights.
Lesley Ugochukwu is someone who appears to have emerged in the rumour mill over the last few days. With Burnley getting relegated, signing him might be a bit more straightforward then most.
Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos is also thought to be a target, although once again, Man United are believed to be involved as well. The Blues might let him go for the right offer, thought to be in the region of £50 million.
So, let’s wait and watch how things unfold for Newcastle United over the next few weeks. Ideally, the fans will want to see Manzambi hold up the black-and-white jersey as soon as possible. The Magpies cannot allow this situation to drag on further and open up the window of opportunity for other clubs to make their move.
