Newcastle United have completed the £43 million signing of Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Touré and are advancing negotiations for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi as Eddie Howe reshapes his squad following major summer departures.
The 20-year-old Ivorian becomes Howe’s second summer acquisition after goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen. Touré arrives having contributed 17 direct goal contributions in 30 Bundesliga matches last season, and he featured in three of Côte d’Ivoire’s four World Cup games. Scouting assessments highlight his blistering pace, agility and high work rate—he registered over 760 sprints last term—though analysts note he must refine his finishing and passing precision.
“We feel Bazoumana is a player with a really high ceiling,” Howe said. “He’s somebody who we believe can offer us something different. He’s also got a lot of potential to unlock.” Touré described the move as fulfilling a long-standing ambition to play in England’s top flight.
Despite his profile, German football scout Florian Först suggests Touré is not a direct replacement for Anthony Gordon, who joined FC Barcelona for €80 million. Först believes the winger will require time to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity.
Manzambi talks progress as World Cup dazzles
Parallel to Touré’s arrival, Newcastle are optimistic of securing Swiss midfielder Manzambi. Advanced talks are underway, with sources indicating that a fee of approximately €46–48 million could convince Freiburg to sanction the transfer.
The 20-year-old’s involvement at the World Cup complicates negotiations. Manzambi has scored three goals and provided one assist in three appearances in Qatar, significantly boosting his profile. Freiburg officials may delay finalising any deal until Switzerland’s campaign concludes, aware that his performances are attracting wider interest.
Sales revenue drives squad overhaul
The recruitment spree is bankrolled by significant outgoings. Newcastle are closing in on Sandro Tonali’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur for a reported £100 million (€117 million including add-ons), following Gordon’s €80 million exit to Barcelona.
Howe is prioritising a central midfielder to replace Tonali and a first-choice goalkeeper, with Manchester City’s James Trafford under consideration. Despite external interest, particularly from Arsenal, the club remain adamant that Bruno Guimarães will not be sold.