Jason Tindall's Lonely Hearts Club Band

🚨Newcastle are close to reaching a full agreement with Freiburg to sign highly rated midfielder Johan #Manzambi. 20yo has enjoyed a sensational World Cup campaign with Switzerland, scoring twice and providing three assists in just four appearances. Newcastle believe the young midfielder has all the attributes to become a key figure in Eddie Howe’s long-term project and view him as an important addition following Sandro Tonali’s departure. The club’s midfield rebuild, however, is far from over. Newcastle remain in the market for another deeper-lying midfielder capable of dictating play from the base of midfield. Auxerre youngster Kevin Danois and Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller are among the players being closely monitored, while the recruitment department continues to track several emerging talents across Europe. Despite reports linking Chelsea’s Andrey Santos and Burnley’s Lesley Ugochukwu with a move to St James’ Park, sources indicate neither player is currently an active target for Newcastle. The Magpies are instead focused on identifying the right profile rather than simply adding numbers to the squad. Manchester City’s James Trafford continues to top the club’s shortlist after #NUFC made two previous attempts to sign the England goalkeeper. His ability with the ball at his feet and long-term potential make him the ideal candidate to strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad. While Trafford remains the preferred option, Newcastle are keeping contingency plans in place. Several goalkeepers who have impressed during the World Cup have been extensively scouted, ensuring the club has alternatives should a move for Trafford fail to materialise. One goalkeeper who can already be ruled out is Moritz Nicolas. Recent reports suggesting Newcastle had opened talks with the Borussia Mönchengladbach goalkeeper, or submitted a €12 million bid, are understood to be entirely inaccurate. Sources have confirmed there have been no discussions between the clubs, no negotiations with the player’s representatives and no formal interest from Newcastle #transfers

🚨🚨🚨🚨 Naljets jet based at NCL coming in from Biggin Hill this evening. Manzambe's agency has several offices across the London area. #NUFC

🚨 BREAKING: Granit Xhaka has TURNED DOWN a move to Chelsea to remain at Sunderland. 🇨🇭 The Swiss & Sunderland captain has reaffirmed of desire to remain with #SAFC and lead them into Europe. ❌ Sunderland always said he was unavailable for transfer despite Chelsea’s move and his relationship with Xabi Alonso. 👍🏽 The 33-year-old’s relationship with the Sunderland fans played a big part in his decision.