Aston Villa Poised to Snatch Swiss World Cup Star from Under Newcastle's Nose

Europa League winners Aston Villa are on the verge of a double transfer coup, securing the services of two highly sought-after players who were also targets for rivals Newcastle. The players in question are Porto's young talent João Valente and Swiss international Yoan Manzambi from Freiburg, who was a key player for Switzerland during the 2026 World Cup.

According to "The Standard," the Birmingham club is closer to signing João Valente, having reportedly beaten the "Magpies" in the race for his signature. The deal is expected to bring the Portuguese champions 1.2 million euros.

Valente, a central midfielder, spent his entire youth career at the "Dragons'" academy, which he joined in 2011. Last season, he made 30 appearances and scored two goals for Porto's B team in the Portuguese league. Additionally, during the 2023/2024 season, he featured in 21 matches and scored one goal in the UEFA Youth League.

A Twist in the Manzambi Saga

Meanwhile, Aston Villa is also finalizing the transfer of Freiburg midfielder Yoan Manzambi, despite the Swiss international appearing to be a sure new signing for Newcastle. According to "The Athletic," the "Magpies" had an agreement with the German club, but the 20-year-old's indecision opened the door for the "Villans."

Aston Villa's interest was heightened by Manzambi's versatility across multiple positions and the club's return to the Champions League. The player made a strong impression in the Europa League final in May and distinguished himself with the Swiss national team at the World Cup, where his team reached the quarter-finals.

For Newcastle, this development is a significant blow. Although financial aspects were never an issue, and the club was prepared to pay around 60 million euros, the management remained cautious. The delay in Manzambi's decision, as he preferred to wait until Switzerland's World Cup campaign concluded, led Newcastle to explore alternative targets. The absence of European football at St. James' Park also proved to be a decisive factor.

Manzambi came through the ranks at Swiss club Servette before moving to Freiburg, where he made 58 appearances for the first team, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists. At the World Cup, he contributed with three goals and two assists.