Former England midfielder Jermaine Jenas believes Newcastle United should move quickly to sign Switzerland international Johan Manzambi, while Chris Waddle has also backed a deal for the impressive midfielder as concerns grow over Eddie Howe’s squad ahead of the new season.
Speaking exclusively to 10bet, both former England internationals urged Newcastle to strengthen significantly in the transfer market following several high-profile departures.
Jenas impressed by Manzambi
Manzambi has enhanced his reputation with a series of eye-catching displays for Switzerland at the World Cup, attracting interest from several leading European clubs.
Jenas admitted the young midfielder has been one of the tournament’s standout performers.
“I like the boy Johan Manzambi from Switzerland. He’s been good. He stood out to me, and he seems to have all the facets of a good midfield player that I like to see.”
He continued: “I think that this lad brings a lot of that to the table. He’s only young as well – he’s only like 21 or 22 or something like that.”
With Bruno Guimaraes continuing to be linked with a move away from St James’ Park, Jenas believes Newcastle should make Manzambi a priority.
“He’s been linked with a couple of big clubs like Barcelona. Not saying Newcastle’s not a big club, but it’s not as appealing as Barcelona to a player. I’m looking at it and thinking, if you’re letting Guimarães go or if you’re letting Tonali go, bring me this boy because he’s got something serious to bring to the table.”
“I don’t know what they’d be able to pick him up for, but I would imagine it’s going to be £50 or £60m. He’s been that impressive.”
Newcastle urged to show ambition
Jenas also warned Newcastle must do far more in the transfer market if they want to convince Guimaraes to remain at the club.
“They need to go mad in the market, but I really don’t see how they do it at all.”
He added: “If I was Bruno Guimarães, I’d be looking around going, ‘What’s the plan here?’ Because he should be playing Champions League football week in, week out, and every year that he’s not, he’s wasting part of his career.”
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Waddle backs Manzambi and Leao
Former Newcastle winger Chris Waddle echoed Jenas’ assessment of Manzambi, insisting the Swiss international fits exactly what Howe’s side need.
“That is exactly the sort of player Newcastle need in the middle of the park.”
Waddle also suggested Newcastle should pursue Portugal winger Rafael Leao if the opportunity arises.
“If Leão plays in a position he’s searching for and ticks the right boxes, by all means get him, because that squad is looking very thin.”
He finished by highlighting Newcastle’s biggest priority before the new campaign.
“What they really need is a number 10; they need a creative player…If I were looking at the market, I’d be searching for a really creative player.”
