Morgan Rogers appears to be edging closer to a high-profile summer transfer after Aston Villa reached an agreement to sign highly rated Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi from Freiburg in what is set to become the biggest deal in the club’s history.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Villa have won the race for the 20-year-old after hijacking Newcastle United’s proposed move, agreeing a deal worth more than €60 million. Manzambi arrives on the back of an outstanding campaign, having starred for Freiburg and impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he registered five goal contributions in four appearances.
While the signing strengthens Unai Emery’s squad, it has also fuelled fresh speculation over the future of Rogers.
The England international has been one of Arsenal’s top attacking targets throughout the transfer window, with Mikel Arteta keen to add another versatile forward capable of operating behind the striker or from wide areas. Reports suggest the Gunners remain the favourites for his signature despite interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.
Until now, Aston Villa have insisted Rogers is not for sale and have reportedly placed a valuation of more than €120 million on the 23-year-old. Other reports have even suggested Villa would demand as much as £130 million, reflecting both his long-term contract and growing importance to the club.
However, Manzambi’s arrival could change the equation.
Like Rogers, the Swiss international is most effective in an attacking midfield role, leading to suggestions Villa may now be more willing to consider offers if they receive a fee matching their valuation. Emery is expected to build his midfield around Manzambi following his record-breaking arrival, making Rogers’ position one of the key storylines to watch during the remainder of the transfer window.
Arsenal are understood to be monitoring developments closely.
The north London club continue to prioritise Rogers as they reshape their attack, with plans also in place to finalise the expected departure of Leandro Trossard before accelerating further additions. While other names such as Julián Alvarez, Bradley Barcola and Christos Tzolis remain on Arsenal’s shortlist, Rogers is viewed internally as one of Arteta’s preferred targets.
Rogers enjoyed another impressive Premier League campaign last season, registering 16 goal contributions in 37 league appearances as he established himself as one of Villa’s most influential attacking players. His performances have only strengthened Arsenal’s determination to secure his signature before the transfer window closes.
Although Villa are not actively looking to sell, the completion of the Manzambi deal has inevitably intensified speculation that a blockbuster transfer involving Rogers could now become one of the biggest stories of the summer.
