Newcastle United are on edge this summer, fearing Liverpool will hijack their €60 million bid for Freiburg winger Johan Manzambi. The Magpies, who sit 12th in the Premier League with 49 points after 38 games (14 W‑7 D‑17 L) and a recent L‑W‑D‑W‑L run, have already seen Liverpool swoop on deals in 2023, 2025 and earlier this season.

Why is the Manzambi deal under threat?

Manzambi, a 22‑year‑old who impressed with 53 goals scored and 55 conceded by his current side, is viewed as a versatile midfielder‑forward. Newcastle agreed a €60 million fee and want the paperwork finalised quickly “to prevent any potential hijack attempts from Premier League clubs”. Liverpool’s track record – snatching Dominik Szoboszlai in 2023 and Hugo Ekitike in 2025 – fuels the Magpies’ anxiety. The club’s hierarchy believes the player offers the balance of attack and defence they need, especially with Curtis Jones rumored to leave.

How have past hijacks shaped Newcastle’s transfer strategy?

The Magpies learned the hard way when Alexander Isak departed for Liverpool last year after a prolific spell. That loss forced Newcastle to rebuild their front line, and the fear is that Manzambi could be the next casualty. Manager Eddie Howe has publicly warned that “once a deal is on the table, other clubs will try to intervene”, highlighting the need for swift medicals and contract signatures.

What does this mean for Newcastle’s season outlook?

If the deal falls through, Newcastle risk missing a player who could add depth as they chase a mid‑table finish, currently 36 points behind leaders Arsenal. Their goal difference sits at –2, and a creative spark could turn narrow losses into draws. Conversely, securing Manzambi would give Eddie Howe a flexible option to rotate with the likes of Bruno Guimarães and Harvey Barnes.

Can Newcastle safeguard the transfer?

The club is reportedly accelerating the medical and paperwork, hoping to lock in the €60 million fee before Liverpool can make a move. Sources say Newcastle have instructed their legal team to file the contract with the Premier League’s governing body within 48 hours. If successful, the Magpies will have thwarted another Liverpool swoop and added a promising talent to their squad.

The situation remains fluid, but Newcastle United’s vigilance reflects a broader concern across the league: big clubs targeting smaller rivals’ targets. With the season halfway through and the Magpies still 36 points off the title race, every signing counts.