Manchester City weigh January move as full-back search continues

November 24, 2025 Oliver Obel

Manchester City are refining their plans for the January transfer window, and discussions inside the club have turned again toward reinforcing the full-back positions.

City remain close behind Arsenal in the Premier League race, but there is a sense that one more specialist defender could help steady the squad through a heavy mid-season schedule.

A report from TEAMTalk says City have revived their interest in Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento, a player the club monitored during his Southampton days.

Staff at City are said to admire his pace, one-on-one defending, and ability to carry the ball forward—traits that fit comfortably into Pep Guardiola’s structure. Livramento has featured in several league and cup matches this season, often stepping in on either flank when Newcastle have dealt with injuries.

Newcastle hold a strong position

Newcastle have Livramento under contract until 2028, and nothing from the club suggests they are eager to move him. He is still regarded as a long-term piece, especially after returning from the knee injury that slowed his progress at Southampton.

For now, the club appears content to keep him unless a particularly compelling offer arrives.

Even so, TEAMTalk reports that one factor could bring Newcastle to the table: their ongoing interest in City goalkeeper James Trafford.

The 21-year-old rejoined City in the summer via a buy-back clause but slipped down the depth chart quickly once Gianluigi Donnarumma settled as the No. 1. Trafford has played mostly in domestic cups and is likely to seek regular minutes elsewhere.

A structure that could suit both sides

Newcastle’s interest in Trafford predates the summer window, and the outlet says early conversations have already taken place ahead of January. Wolves have also made an inquiry, though Newcastle are viewed as the more serious contender at this stage.

That dynamic opens the door to a player-plus-cash structure, with Trafford potentially included in a wider deal for Livramento. It’s an idea City are considering, at least internally.

Such a move would give Guardiola a natural full-back—something he has lacked this season while relying on midfielders like Nico O’Reilly and Matheus Nunes to fill those roles—and would likely give Trafford a clearer pathway to Premier League minutes.

As of now, no other major outlets have confirmed TEAMTalk’s reporting, and both clubs are keeping their plans close. Still, with needs on both sides aligning in unusual ways, this could become one of the more fluid storylines as the window approaches.

Sources: TEAMTalk