Valentino Livramento would reportedly prefer a move to Newcastle United over Chelsea, who are keen to re-sign the right-back for £40 million.
According to Daily Mail, Valentino Livramento would ideally like to sign for Newcastle United over Chelsea if presented with those options. The Southampton man is not overly pushing for a move away from Southampton but will consider a big move back to the Premier League. The Blues have a £40 million buyback clause to re-sign the youngster.
Valentino Livramento was considered one of the brightest prospects following an impressive first season with Southampton in 2021/22. The 20-year-old impressed under Ralph Hasenhuttl and soon fell on the radars of many top clubs.
Livramento is being eyed as a future versatile right-back with the characteristics to invert in that role. Such a trait could prove useful for many top managers increasingly adopting that role. Livramento missed most of the previous season with a serious knee injury but has returned to full fitness.
Newcastle United have monitored his situation, with Eddie Howe keen to bring a new right-back to compete with Kieran Trippier. The Magpies will also play Champions League football, which will require good depth in each position,
The report claims Newcastle United are closing in on Livramento but are yet to agree a fee with Southampton. They suggest the Magpies had made an offer close to £20 million, which the Saints might reject, considering they are seeking a lot more.
Any Newcastle United move could get complicated with the arrival of Chelsea in the race. The Blues inserted a £40 million buyback clause in Livramento’s contract when he joined Southampton. The Blues do not necessarily need another right-back, considering they will have Malo Gusto joining from Lyon and competing with the fit again Reece James.
Yet, Chelsea are looking to bring Livramento, but the young defender would reportedly prefer a move to Newcastle United if those two were his choices. The report also hints at Chelsea seemingly looking to send the defender back to Southampton on loan, which does not interest the 20-year-old.
He would not pressurise Southampton in this window to accept a move, as he will happily stay here and fulfil his contract until 2025. However, if Newcastle United get serious about the right-back, they will likely win the race depending on agreeing on a fee with the Saints.
