Newcastle United are working on a deal for Southampton full-back Tino Livramento, with Saints teammate Armel Bella-Kotchap also under consideration.
We’ve been informed that club officials have been in contact with Livramento’s representatives over a potential summer move to St James’ Park.
The 20-year-old is represented by Wasserman – the same agency that looks after Eddie Howe and Ryan Fraser – so there’s a clear line of communication and informal talks have already taken place over the England U21 international.
Livramento suffered a serious knee ligament (ACL) injury last April, but featured in Southampton’s final two games of the season and is considered a exciting talent who could learn from Kieran Trippier and provide cover down both flanks.
His recent injury is a slight concern, yet the former Chelsea talent was outstanding in his first full season in the Premier League (2021/22) and could be available following their relegation to the Championship.
We know less about the extent of our interest in Bella-Kotchap. However, it makes sense that he’s on the list of right-sided centre-backs being looked at.
The 21-year-old is already a full German international and ticks several boxes in our search for an athletic centre-back able to compete with Fabian Schar and develop into a future partner for Sven Botman. Injuries have impacted his progress in 2023, but he’s shown glimpses of huge potential in his debut campaign in English football and could be picked up at a cut-price fee.
