Liverpool are plotting a swoop to sign exciting Swiss international attacking midfielder Johan Manzambi from Aston Villa, according to reports via the Sun.
Manzambi joined Villa in the summer as part of a newly revamped attack alongside Nicolas Jackson and Ibrahim Mbaye.
The youngster began his career in his home country with 17-time Swiss Super League champion Servette before joining Freiburg in 2023, where he progressed through the academy ranks at U17, U19 and Freiburg II.
The attacker made his debut for the German club in August 2024 and quickly became an indispensable presence in the lineup. He came into the limelight last season, where he provided 16 goal contributions to help the club secure a European spot.
At the international level, Manzambi was one of Switzerland’s best players at the World Cup, netting three goals and providing two assists in four games, prompting his teammate Breel Embolo to describe him as ‘incredible’.
Several clubs showed interest in the 21-year-old before Villa spent heavily to make him their second-most expensive signing. Since his arrival, he has repaid the faith, providing six goal contributions in six games for Unai Emery’s side, with his performances now attracting interest.
Now, according to reports via the Sun, Liverpool are plotting an audacious swoop to sign the attacking midfielder from Villa.
‘Incredible’ attacker
With three goals and three assists this season, the report adds that Manzambi’s displays have piqued the interest of the Reds’ boss, Andoni Iraola, and his coaching staff.
As a result, Liverpool’s hierarchy have expressed their desire to closely monitor the 21-year-old ahead of a possible swoop to Anfield next summer, the Sun, citing Swiss sources, adds.
Amid concerns regarding Alexis Mac Allister’s future, the Sun reports that the Reds have earmarked Manzambi as a potential replacement for the Argentine international, who is attracting interest from Real Madrid.
Manzambi had a brilliant game against Newcastle United on Saturday, creating two chances, taking three shots, winning possession twice and netting what proved to be the winning goal as Villa held on to secure a 1-0 win over the Magpies.
The goal now makes the Swiss international the fourth player to score or assist in each of his opening three Premier League starts for Villa after Dalian Atkinson in August 1992, Dion Dublin in November 1998 and Danny Ings in August 2021.
Having only moved to Villa Park less than three months ago, signing him will not be easy, so Liverpool will need to submit a significant offer well above his £54m Transfermarkt valuation to test the Villains’ resolve.
