Manchester City have reportedly ruled out a summer move for Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, despite needing a new right-back following Kyle Walker’s departure to Burnley. Pep Guardiola is instead considering Barcelona’s Jules Kounde, although a deal looks difficult at the moment. City are now focused on player exits, but could still act if the deal for Kounde is deemed possible.
| Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱 |
-
WHAT HAPPENED?
ESPN have reported that Manchester City are no longer willing to pursue a deal for Livramento, despite previously scouting the Newcastle full-back. Walker’s exit to Burnley had sparked rumours of a move, but no bid was made. Journalist Fabrice Hawkins has now reported that the eight-time Premier League champions are monitoring Barcelona star Kounde, although the Catalan side are working on extending the Frenchman's contract.
Advertisement
- Getty Images Sport
THE BIGGER PICTURE
ESPN sources have said that City briefly considered Livramento as Walker’s replacement, but have moved on to other targets. Kounde has been identified as a possibility, though Barcelona are keen to keep him and talks over a new contract are ongoing. With no concrete offers on the table, the Frenchman looks unlikely to head to Etihad Stadium this summer.
-
TELL ME MORE…
At the moment, Manchester City are short of a specialist right-back, with only Rico Lewis and Matheus Nunes as makeshift options. While they’ve already concluded most of their incoming business, Guardiola is still open to reinforcing the backline. However, player sales — including Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips — are currently the club’s top priority.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
- AFP
WHAT NEXT FOR MAN CITY?
Guardiola's side may yet go into the new season without a recognised right-back. If they do act in the market, it’s unlikely to be for Livramento or Koundé. For now, Manchester City are content to wait — unless the right opportunity becomes available late in the window.