‘100% leave’ – Fabrizio Romano drops major transfer update on Man City’s interest in Newcastle United star

The meteoric rise of Tino Livramento at Newcastle United has caught the attention of English football’s elite, with Manchester City emerging as serious suitors for the versatile full-back.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the 21-year-old defender features prominently on Pep Guardiola’s four-man shortlist to replace outgoing veteran Kyle Walker, setting the stage for a potential summer tug-of-war between the Premier League rivals.

Livramento’s breakthrough campaign on Tyneside has been one of Newcastle’s brightest stories in an otherwise turbulent season.

Initially signed from Southampton for £32 million (potentially rising to £40m) in 2023, the England U-21 international has blossomed into a first-team stalwart, demonstrating remarkable adaptability by excelling at both right-back and, more recently, as an emergency left-back during Lewis Hall’s absence.

His composed performances haven’t gone unnoticed by Gareth Southgate’s senior England setup either, with many tipping him for full international honors in the near future.

Romano’s bombshell revelation that Walker will “100% leave” the Etihad this summer – regardless of AC Milan’s decision on his loan deal – has accelerated City’s search for defensive reinforcements.

The treble-winners view Livramento as embodying the modern full-back prototype Guardiola covets: technically gifted, positionally intelligent, and capable of contributing in both defensive and attacking phases. However, prising him away from St James’ Park won’t be straightforward.

Newcastle’s hierarchy considers Livramento fundamental to their long-term project, particularly given his age, homegrown status, and rapid development under Eddie Howe’s tutelage.

The Magpies’ reluctance to sell key assets has been well-documented, with Alexander Isak’s situation demonstrating their determination to resist predatory advances from wealthier rivals.

While Financial Fair Play considerations always loom large, Newcastle’s improved commercial revenue and potential European qualification strengthen their negotiating position.

Livramento’s 2023/24 Season by the Numbers

The unique structure of this summer’s transfer window adds another layer of complexity to any potential deal. With the market briefly opening from June 1-10 to accommodate Club World Cup participants like Manchester City, the champions could theoretically move early for Livramento.

However, Newcastle’s participation in this compressed window depends entirely on whether they secure European football – a possibility that remains alive heading into the season’s final matches.

For Livramento himself, the decision would represent a career crossroads. While the allure of Champions League football and working under Guardiola is undeniable, regular playing time at Newcastle has been instrumental in his development.

At City, he’d face immediate competition from established stars like Rico Lewis and potentially others depending on their summer business.

Newcastle’s resolve will undoubtedly be tested if City formalize their interest with a substantial bid. The club’s £40m maximum valuation already looks conservative given Livramento’s progress, and any offer would need to significantly exceed that figure to even prompt discussions.

With homegrown talent at a premium and Livramento contracted until 2028, Newcastle hold most of the cards in this particular transfer saga.

As the summer window approaches, this developing story serves as a litmus test for Newcastle’s ambitions. Retaining emerging stars like Livramento is just as crucial as making high-profile signings if the Magpies are to bridge the gap to the Premier League’s established elite.

For Manchester City, their interest underscores the relentless nature of top-level squad building – even England’s most dominant modern side recognizes the need to continually refresh their ranks with top young talent.

One thing is certain: Livramento’s future will remain a talking point until the window closes on September 1st.

Whether he stays or goes, his rapid ascent from Chelsea academy reject to Premier League hot property completes one of football’s more satisfying redemption arcs in recent memory.