It’s fair to say that Newcastle United have a future England regular on their hands in Tino Livramento.
From _that_ Carabao Cup final masterclass against Mo Salah to excelling at both left and right back, the initial £32m we spent on the 22-year-old is looking more and more like a bargain with every game.
But the England star’s form has attracted the attention of Manchester City in the past few weeks, with Pep Guardiola seemingly fixated on signing yet another full back for his City side.
Though we’ve rebuked all approaches thus far, rumours still persist surrounding Livramento’s future, which the defender has now addressed in a new interview.
Speaking to The Sun’s Gary Stonehouse, Livramento has denied any knowledge of Man City’s intent to sign him and talked up Eddie Howe instead.
Enjoying a solid EURO campaign with Lee Carsley’s England U-21s, Livramento was notably rested for the final group game, and will only have tonight’s upcoming game against Spain on his mind.
He commented “I am very much focused on what I am doing here now.”
“Being away here with the under-21s is my main priority. I like to stay in the moment and focus on what I can do to help the team now.”
Regarding City’s reported interest, Livramento simply states “I don’t know anything about that.”
Much like Alexander Isak, who himself has enjoyed admiration from Premier League rivals, it would take an astronomical fee for the club to even begin negotiations over transferring Livramento from the North East to the North West.
Being brought to the Toon by Eddie Howe back in August 2023, Livramento is a prime example of the gaffer’s magic as a coach, turning him and fullback partner Lewis Hall into full-fledged England internationals.
And Livramento has talked about the positive discussions he has recently had with Howe, and how it’s helped him flourish.
“I’m in constant contact with the manager. He has just said to keep focusing on what you are doing now and you are doing so well.”
“So, I think having that relationship with someone that is obviously such a big figure in what I’ve done so far, is an amazing thing for me.”
The future looks incredibly bright for Livramento wherever he may end up playing, but at this stage in his career, and with a full back spot at Newcastle United seemingly his for as long he wants it, it would be a bold choice to make the switch to City.