Newcastle United have agreed a deal with Southampton for promising right-back Valentino Livramento, per Sky Sports.
The Magpies are reinforcing their squad ahead of the 2023/24 season and have turned to the young defender.
The 20-year-old made his mark at Southampton after his move from Chelsea in 2021 but faced a devastating setback when he suffered an ACL injury 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. Exactly 392 days after that injury, he made a triumphant comeback against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium – the same ground where he suffered the injury.
The youngster made two substitute appearances last season as Southampton suffered relegation to the Championship.
The Saints will now sell him to Newcastle to continue his development in the top flight.
Livramento will provide competition at right-back for Newcastle captain 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 £39m.
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.
The Magpies host Liverpool the following weekend, setting the stage for a tough start to the new season.
