Newcastle step up Johan Manzambi pursuit and lead race for Bazoumana Toure - Report

Newcastle United make a lightning-quick start to the summer trading period, but it has been all too quiet of late, and fans are starting to get a bit impatient.

Speed has never been Newcastle's strong suit in the transfer window, but fans were hoping that things would be different this year with a sporting director in place well ahead of time. Indeed, it looked as though we were getting our wish when Ewen Jaouen was snapped up early in the window, but since then, there hasn't been a lot to chew on.

Other than missing out on Victor Munoz to a last-minute Liverpool swoop, things have been way too quiet on incomings and far too loud on outgoings, so the mood around the club is tense to say the least.

Poor Keith Downie of Sky Sports got absolutely roasted on social media the other day for reporting that Newcastle were interested in Johan Manzambi, with people convinced that just by him reporting it, it means other clubs will now come in for him - as if that's how it works.

Newcastle is making moves for Johan Manzambi and Bazoumana Toure

Keith Downie seemed confident that Newcastle were in the driving seat for that deal, and now the Daily Mail is reporting that Newcastle are in ongoing talks for the 20-year-old Freiburg midfielder.

Manzambi has impressed at the World Cup, scoring three goals for Switzerland, and it's highly unlikely that only Newcastle will be at the table for him, regardless of Keith Downie doing his job.

Another player the Mail claims Newcastle are making moves for is Bazoumana Toure, who was a last-minute substitute for Ivory Coast last night as they were sent home from the World Cup by Erling Haaland's Norway.

The Hoffenheim winger plays down the left and would be seen as the replacement for Anthony Gordon, with reports suggesting Newcastle now lead the race for the 20-year-old.

These would both be exceptional signings for Newcastle

Both of these players represent the profile Newcastle is looking at recruiting this summer. Young, up-and-coming players still have plenty to prove and plenty to work on.

Neither should break the bank either, which is another key thing, particularly after being hit with a couple of fines by UEFA.

It doesn't sound like either deal is close by any means, so a lot could still happen to derail them, but at least we're starting to see the return of positive transfer news. Long may it continue.