Newcastle signs Ajax teen Steur and moves for 20-year-old World Cup star Manzambi
Switzerland's Johan Manzambi (9) and Algeria's Fares Chaibi (10) battle for the ball during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between Switzerland and Algeria in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, July 2, 2026. Credit: AP/Lindsey Wasson
NEWCASTLE, England — Newcastle sealed a deal to sign 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur on Thursday and is reportedly moving in for World Cup breakout star Johan Manzambi.
Ajax said Steur will join Newcastle for a transfer fee that could reach 27 million euros ($31 million).
Newcastle is getting younger after high-profile sales of Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali this offseason by the Saudi Arabia-owned club.
The 20-year-old Manzambi has impressed for World Cup quarterfinalist Switzerland, until suffering a knee injury in training, after a strong season for Europa League finalist Freiburg.
Another 20-year-old from the Bundesliga, winger Bazoumana Touré, joined Newcastle this week from Hoffenheim for a reported 42 million pounds ($56 million).
Newcastle has sold England winger Gordon to Barcelona and Italy playmaker Tonali to Tottenham for a combined total of more than $200 million.
A third established team leader could leave with Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimarães reportedly seeking to push through a move to Premier League champion Arsenal.
England's Anthony Gordon (18) controls the ball during the World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Mexico and England in Mexico City, Sunday, July 5, 2026. Credit: AP/Moises Castillo
Newcastle played in the Champions League last season but a 12th-place finish in the Premier League means no European soccer next season. That will cut club revenue by tens of millions of euros (dollars).
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