As the summer transfer window heats up, Manchester City are poised to make a splash, with manager Pep Guardiola setting his sights on Newcastle United’s dynamic full-back Tino Livramento. The 22-year-old England international, who joined Newcastle from Southampton in 2023 for £40 million, has emerged as a prime target for the Premier League champions, who are reportedly preparing a £40 million bid to secure his services. Despite a trophyless 2024-25 season—the first in eight years for City—Guardiola remains relentless in his pursuit of talent to bolster his squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup and beyond. “We will be back,” vowed City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, signaling an aggressive approach to the transfer market.
Livramento’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. After coming through Chelsea’s academy, he made a name for himself at Southampton, despite an ACL injury in 2022 that briefly stalled his progress. Since joining Newcastle, he has been a revelation, appearing in 37 of their 38 Premier League matches last season, showcasing his electric pace and versatility. Capable of playing on either flank, Livramento’s ability to maraud forward while maintaining defensive solidity has drawn comparisons to City’s aging star Kyle Walker. With Walker’s future uncertain—rumors of interest from Galatasaray and Fenerbahce have surfaced, though a move to Saudi Arabia “doesn’t appeal” to him—Livramento is seen as the ideal long-term successor. “We will need a new full-back in the summer,” Guardiola admitted after a 5-2 win over Crystal Palace, hinting at the club’s intent to reinforce their backline.
Guardiola’s admiration for Livramento is no secret. The manager has long valued players who combine athleticism with tactical intelligence, and Livramento’s ability to clock speeds over 35km/h makes him one of the Premier League’s fastest defenders. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has praised his “excellent” physical traits, but the Magpies are adamant about keeping their star, who still has three years left on his contract. City’s interest, however, could test Newcastle’s resolve, especially as they vie for Champions League qualification. Sources suggest City believe they can prise Livramento away, with journalist Graeme Bailey reporting that Guardiola “has not given up” on the deal, despite Newcastle’s firm stance.
City’s transfer strategy this summer reflects their ambition to reclaim dominance. They’ve already invested over £100 million in signings like Rayan Cherki from Lyon, Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves, and Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan, with Ait-Nouri’s arrival strengthening their left-back options. Livramento, however, represents a strategic addition on the right, where City see him as a transformative presence for the Club World Cup in the United States. The tournament, kicking off later this month, is a key target for City, who aim to reassert their global pedigree after a challenging season. “This season is behind us. Today is a new day,” Al Mubarak declared, emphasizing the club’s focus on rebuilding.
Newcastle, meanwhile, face a dilemma. Livramento is central to Eddie Howe’s long-term vision, with fans viewing him as the heir to Kieran Trippier. Losing him to a rival like City would be a blow, especially after their recent climb above City in the Premier League standings following a win over Manchester United. Yet, a substantial offer could tempt the Magpies, particularly if they fail to secure Champions League football. City’s financial muscle and Guardiola’s allure—coupled with the chance to compete for silverware—might also sway Livramento, though his loyalty to Newcastle remains strong.
As the transfer saga unfolds, City are exploring other options, including Freiburg’s Kiliann Sildillia, but Livramento remains a priority. With talks for other targets like Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso and Nicolo Savona stalling, Guardiola’s focus on the Newcastle star underscores his determination to reshape his squad. For Livramento, a move to the Etihad could be a defining step in his career, offering a platform to shine under one of football’s greatest managers. As the Club World Cup looms, all eyes will be on whether City can land their man and reignite their pursuit of glory.
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