Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are reportedly leading the race to sign Tino Livramento as the Premier League champions look to refresh their defensive options ahead of next season.
City are understood to have tracked the Newcastle United full-back since his arrival at St James’ Park, and this summer could finally see that long-standing interest turn into a formal approach.
The club’s need for a natural right-back has grown, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the long-term role of Kyle Walker and the use of midfielders in makeshift defensive positions.
Under Eddie Howe, Livramento has developed into one of the league’s most exciting young full-backs. He played a major role last season as Newcastle United secured a top-five finish and lifted the EFL Cup, highlighting his growing importance to the squad.
This campaign has been more disrupted. Injuries have limited the 23-year-old’s involvement, restricting his appearances and slowing his momentum. However, his reputation across the league remains strong.
Reports suggest City are not discouraged by his injury record. Their recruitment approach often focuses on long-term potential and tactical suitability, and Livramento’s technical quality, pace and ability to drift into midfield align closely with Guardiola’s tactical demands.
Internally, City recognise that while players such as Matheus Nunes have filled in when required, they are not viewed as permanent solutions at right-back.
Guardiola’s structure relies heavily on full-backs who are comfortable in possession, positionally intelligent and capable of contributing both defensively and in build-up phases.
Livramento fits that profile. His capacity to overlap, underlap and operate in inverted roles makes him an attractive option for a side competing across multiple competitions each season.
Newcastle, meanwhile, could face a challenging task keeping key players if they miss out on Champions League qualification.
That scenario may increase transfer pressure, particularly with top clubs monitoring standout performers.
City’s interest is considered long-term rather than opportunistic. Even if a deal does not happen immediately, the club are expected to remain alert to any change in Newcastle’s position.
From a strategic perspective, targeting a young defender with proven Premier League experience represents a logical step as City plan gradual renewal in key positions.
Still, Livramento’s recent injury setbacks introduce an element of risk, something City must weigh against his considerable upside.
If he returns fully fit, the pathway to the Etihad could become clearer. Newcastle’s season, City’s recruitment priorities and Livramento’s recovery timeline will ultimately determine whether this developing interest turns into one of the headline defensive transfers of the summer.
