Newcastle United have been trying to sign Tino Livramento from Southampton this summer, but might have to take their business elsewhere.
It has been claimed that the 20-year-old wants to sign for Eddie Howe’s side, but the issue revolves around the transfer fee.
The Magpies are not offering Southampton enough money, which has created a stalemate in the negotiations.
That could force the Toon recruitment team to walk away and move on to another target, and a report from the Daily Mail suggests that the club have someone in mind.
Newcastle eye Tino Livramento alternative
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are interested in signing Lyon defender Sael Kumbedi if they are unable to sign their current transfer targets.
The 18-year-old Frenchman is primarily a right-back, which would mean any move for him would be instead of Livramento, who is proving to be difficult to sign.
Kumbedi is a young talent who can also play on the left, which will appeal to Howe. He is also looking to sign a left-back, although the club have targeted bigger names like Kieran Tierney.
A move for Kumbedi would be a deal with an eye for the future, as he is a player with limited senior experience at the top level. He made his Ligue 1 debut last season, and has played in the French top flight 12 times for Lyon.
In contrast, Livramento has a full Premier League season under his belt, and is two years older. He is probably more suited to the Magpies right now, with Howe eager to enhance his squad and sign someone who can provide cover for Kieran Trippier.
Livramento can do that, but whether Kumbedi can straight away remains to be seen. However, a deal for the Frenchman would point towards a bright future, as he is someone with ‘world class potential‘ according to reputable website Football Talent Scout.
In an ideal world, a deal for Livramento gets done. He is the safer option, but it is wise for Newcastle to line up an alternative.
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