Man City’s bid to sign Newcastle star hits stumbling block in major Pep Guardiola blow

Manchester City look set to fall short in their pursuit of Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento, according to fresh reports. The 22-year-old defender delivered an outstanding campaign in 2024/25, playing a pivotal role in Newcastle’s resurgence.

His contributions were vital as the Magpies lifted the Carabao Cup and clinched a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. Operating effectively on both flanks, Livramento made 45 appearances across all competitions, showing not only his tactical flexibility but also his endurance and consistency throughout the season.

His form earned him a well-deserved England senior debut in November, a milestone that underlined his rapid rise and increasing reputation.

Having emerged from Chelsea’s academy system and further developed during a spell at Southampton, Livramento arrived at St. James’ Park in 2023 for an initial fee of £32 million, with the total potentially rising to £40 million.

Since then, he has become a key figure under Eddie Howe, endearing himself to fans and solidifying his status as one of the brightest young full-backs in English football.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola identified Livramento as a top target this summer, aiming to reinforce his defensive options after his side finished 13 points behind the Premier League champions.

Guardiola was eager to bring Livramento in ahead of the Club World Cup, which begins next weekend, viewing the Englishman as an ideal long-term solution for his aging full-back line.

However, negotiations between the clubs have reportedly reached a stalemate. Newcastle remain firm in their stance and have shown no intention of letting Livramento go, regardless of the financial incentives.

This firm refusal reflects Howe’s broader ambition to retain the core of his squad as the team prepares for a return to top-tier European football.

Howe previously addressed the growing transfer speculation surrounding Livramento, expressing his disappointment over constant rumours about potential departures.

He made it clear that Newcastle’s focus lies in reinforcing their squad rather than losing their top performers. For Howe, building a stronger unit for the future means holding onto key players like Livramento, not entertaining bids that could weaken the team’s foundation.

His statements point to a club not just with ambition, but with a plan and a firm belief in the talent already on their books.

While City may have to accept defeat in their bid to land Livramento, the club has already turned its attention to alternative targets.

Reports suggest that the Manchester outfit is close to finalizing a deal for Wolves left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri. The Algeria international, who is entering the final year of his contract, has attracted attention after delivering his most productive season to date.

He scored five goals and registered seven assists in 41 appearances, making him one of the standout performers at Molineux. With his contract expiring next summer, Wolves have little choice but to cash in now rather than risk losing him for free.

City are believed to have agreed to a deal worth up to €43 million, or approximately £36.2 million.

In addition to bolstering their defense, City are also investing in midfield reinforcements. The club has reportedly reached an agreement with AC Milan for Dutch international Tijjani Reijnders.

The 26-year-old, recently crowned Serie A Midfielder of the Year, is set to join City in a £46.5 million move. Reijnders’ creativity, work rate, and composure on the ball make him a strong candidate to slot seamlessly into Guardiola’s high-demand system.

Furthermore, City are targeting another promising talent in Lyon’s Rayan Cherki. The French playmaker, known for his technical flair and attacking instincts, has emerged as a £25 million target for Guardiola’s side.

These moves underline City’s determination to remain competitive at the highest level, especially after falling short domestically.

While Livramento may be out of reach for now, Manchester City continue to pursue elite-level reinforcements across the pitch.

Their aggressive approach in the market signals a clear intent to bounce back stronger, but Newcastle’s refusal to part with one of their most prized assets could prove just as defining for the season ahead.