Signing players in this day and age does not look an easy process.
Indeed, even a team playing Champions League football next season and with money to burn in the form of Newcastle United don’t always have things their own way.
It took what felt like an age to finally get the Sandro Tonali deal over the line, such are the complications of big money transfers.
Still, the Italian is not the only target on the club’s radar.
Southampton defender Tino Livramento is said to have been the subject of bids with Eddie Howe keen on the 20-year-old.
Chelsea, the defender’s former club, are also believed to be keen.
Now, there has been a development.
Tino Livramento wants Newcastle move
According to the Daily Mail, the Saints star is keen on a move to St James’ Park.
Having left Stamford Bridge in search of first-team chances after being blocked by the emergence of Reece James, Livramento isn’t particularly open to the idea of a return.
The Blues signed Malo Gusto in January and he will be in the squad next season under Mauricio Pochettino, potentially limiting opportunities again.
Chelsea do reportedly have a £38m buy-back clause in his contract on the south coast, although Newcastle are said to be his preference.
Livramento, however, will unlikely actively push for an exit.
Newcastle beating Chelsea to Livramento would be a major statement
Earlier this week, Pochettino hailed the Blues as the “greatest team” in England.
To beat them for a player – described as “excellent” by Gareth Southgate – with an emotional connection to the club would be a major statement of intent from Newcastle.
While Kieran Trippier is the first-choice under Eddie Howe, figures at the club are thought to be aware he cannot possibly play every game next season given the increased schedule.
With that in mind, football might be easier to come by at St James’ Park than at Chelsea.
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