Manchester City Expected to Make Major 2026 Move for Newcastle Star Livramento
Manchester City are reportedly preparing for a potential **big-money transfer approach in 2026** for Newcastle United full-back Valentino Livramento, as the club continues to reshape its defensive structure under new sporting director Hugo Viana. With the right-back position becoming increasingly important in Pep Guardiola’s evolving system, City’s long-standing admiration for Livramento may soon be pushed toward a serious offer.
Content:
Manchester City’s squad went through major restructuring during the last summer transfer window, with key senior figures such as Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Ilkay Gundogan, and Ederson all departing the Etihad Stadium. These exits, combined with a disappointing league campaign that exposed City’s defensive vulnerabilities, have prompted the club to intensify long-term planning in crucial positions.
One of the most notable weaknesses last season was the lack of stability at left-back, although the right flank also experienced inconsistency after Kyle Walker’s dramatic dip in form and eventual move to Italy before joining Burnley permanently. As part of their search for long-term solutions, City identified **Tino Livramento as a prime target in the summer but Newcastle’s refusal to negotiate and the player’s long contract halted any progress.
Despite the failed attempt, City have maintained a strong interest. Their scouting department has reportedly conducted **extensive analysis** on Livramento, impressed by his pace, technical ability, and defensive intelligence. With **three years left on his contract**, Newcastle remain firm in valuing him as a central piece of Eddie Howe’s project, and the player himself is said to be happy on Tyneside.
However, according to new reports, Livramento is expected to **delay contract-extension talks**, keeping his options open as Manchester City are anticipated to make a renewed approach in 2026. The timing aligns with a possible shift in Newcastle’s position, as the club may be more willing to negotiate if a substantial bid arrives.
What could drive the price even higher is Livramento’s potential to feature prominently for England at the 2026 World Cup under manager Thomas Tuchel. A strong tournament from the defender could significantly increase interest from top clubs — with City currently viewed as the most probable suitor.
For now, Manchester City continue to rely on Matheus Nunes, Rico Lewis, Khusanov, and John Stones as options on the right, but the long-term vision points clearly toward securing a dynamic, athletic full-back with world-class potential — a profile Livramento fits perfectly.
FAQs:
- Q: Why is Manchester City interested in Livramento?
A: City view him as a long-term right-back solution due to his pace, technical quality, and ability to thrive in high-intensity systems.
- Q: Why didn’t City sign him in the last summer window?
A: Newcastle refused to negotiate because Livramento still had three years left on his contract and is considered a key part of Eddie Howe’s project.
- Q: When is City expected to make a new approach?
A: Reports suggest an official push is **expected in 2026**, when Newcastle may be more open to selling.
- Q: Is Livramento open to leaving Newcastle?
A: He is happy at the club but plans to delay contract-extension talks, keeping his options open.
- Q: Could the 2026 World Cup affect his transfer value?
A: Yes — a strong tournament could significantly raise his market value.
Conclusion:
Manchester City’s ongoing admiration for Valentino Livramento highlights the club’s determination to strengthen a key position that has lacked stability in recent seasons. With extensive scouting already completed and a major approach expected in 2026, this transfer story is far from over. If Newcastle soften their stance and the player continues his upward trajectory, City may finally secure one of England’s most promising full-backs — a move that could prove crucial for Guardiola’s next defensive evolution.