Romano: Aston Villa Hijack Manzambi Deal, Arsenal Prep Trossard Exit, Vinicius Jr Contract Talks

Transfer insider insider has dropped a fresh batch of summer window updates, headlined by Aston Villa swooping in to snatch midfielder Johan Manzambi from under Newcastle’s nose. Romano reports that Villa are on the verge of completing a hijack after Newcastle had already agreed a €60 million fee with Freiburg. The Magpies had a verbal deal in place for three or four days but grew frustrated as Manzambi and his camp kept delaying a decision, wanting to wait until Switzerland’s World Cup campaign ended. Villa then entered the race, offering Champions League football and a better financial package. Newcastle are now pulling out, believing the player won’t commit. While that deal collapses, Newcastle have secured a highly rated 16-year-old winger, Kieran Thompson, from Arsenal’s academy. Romano confirmed the deal is agreed, with Arsenal unable to convince the youngster to sign a new contract despite interest from several clubs. At the Emirates, Arsenal are lining up a replacement for Leandro Trossard, who is closing in on a €20 million move to Besiktas (€18m plus €2m in add-ons). Romano says if Trossard departs, Arsenal will immediately push for Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis, with contacts already made and the player keen on the move. However, Tzolis is not the top target – that remains Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers. Romano states Arsenal have already advanced talks with Rogers over personal terms but still face a huge hurdle: Villa’s €150 million (£130m) asking price. Arsenal also admire Bradley Barcola, but Liverpool are also interested, making for a competitive summer window for wingers. Finally, at Real Madrid, the club is working to resolve Vinicius Junior’s contract situation as quickly as possible amid ongoing speculation.