Newcastle agree deal to sign Southampton’s Livramento

Newcastle United have agreed a deal with Southampton for promising right-back Valentino Livramento, per Sky Sports. 

The Magpies are reinforcing themselves ahead 2023/24 season and have turned to the young defender.

The 20-year-old prodigy made his mark at Southampton after his move from Chelsea in 2021 but faced a devastating setback when an ACL injury forced him off the pitch in April 2022. 

His impressive breakout season abruptly ended, and the talented England Under-21 international had to endure more than a year on the sidelines.

However, Livramento’s resilience shone through, and exactly 392 days after that injury, he made a triumphant comeback against Brighton at the Amex stadium—the very ground where he suffered the injury. 

The youngster made two substitute appearances last season as Southampton suffered relegation to the Championship. 

The Southcoast club will now sell him to Newcastle to continue his development in the top flight.

Livramento is a rapid full-back who can beat opposition defenders for fun to deliver teasing crosses into the box for attackers. He still needs polishing defensively, but it is only typical at his age.

Livramento will provide competition at right-back for Newcastle skipper Kieran Trippier next season.

Trippier was crucial for their fourth-place finish in the Premier League last season, but he needs a reliable deputy.

Learning under Trippier will allow the young defender to develop his game without much pressure.

Livramento joins Newcastle’s ranks with two other significant signings—Sandro Tonali, secured from AC Milan for £55 million, and Harvey Barnes from Leicester City, acquired for £39 million. 

Newcastle’s Premier League journey commences with a showdown against Aston Villa at St James’ Park on August 12.

Eddie Howe’s squad faces a daunting test on August 19, travelling to the Etihad Stadium to challenge reigning champions Manchester City. 

Next, on August 26, the Magpies host Liverpool, setting the stage for a tough start to the new season.