Newcastle have received “initial approaches” from intermediaries as Manchester City try to lure Tino Livramento to the Etihad, according to the Chronicle ‘s Lee Ryder.
The journalist claims that the enquiries were “rejected”, with the Magpies keen to keep hold of the 22-year-old.
Livramento has been identified as a top target for the Cityzens, who are looking to bring in a long-term replacement for Kyle Walker.
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The England international has returned from his loan spell at AC Milan but he isn’t expected to remain in Manchester beyond the summer.
What are the chances of Livramento leaving Newcastle?
Eddie Howe’s side have made it clear that the former Chelsea and Southampton player is not for sale, but it remains to be seen if they hold firm on that stance.
Even if they do relent, though, the Magpies are unlikely to sell him for a low price. They paid £40m to bring him to St James’ Park just under two years ago.
Are City looking at any alternatives?
Pep Guardiola’s side were heavily linked with a bid for Flamengo’s Wesley but things have gone quiet on that front in recent weeks.
It is believed that the Brazilian’s asking price is €50m (£42m) and his team wanted him to be sold prior to the Club World Cup.
The Cityzens may yet consider reviving their interest in Juventus’s Andrea Cambiaso. Negotiations were initially held to buy the Italian international during the January transfer window and Fabrizio Romano has subsequently confirmed that the player is still on their list of targets.
A lot may still depend on whether Newcastle do soften their resolve on Livramento as well as how much City are prepared to pay for him.
In other news, it has been confirmed that Manchester City have ended talks to sign a midfielder from a Premier League rival