Despite a successful season so far, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is not standing still, with the club reportedly lining up a major move for Newcastle United's England international Tino Livramento.
Arteta and Berta Identify Key Defensive Target
According to sources cited by Football Transfers, the 23-year-old full-back has emerged as a leading target for the Gunners. Sporting director Andrea Berta is spearheading the search for players who can not only win the Premier League but sustain a period of dominance, and Livramento fits the desired profile perfectly.
The report states that it remains unclear whether an approach will be made during the current January 2026 transfer window, but the interest from the Emirates hierarchy is firm. Arteta and Berta believe the Newcastle player's style is strikingly similar to that of current Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber and that he could slot into the right-back role with ease.
The 'Right-Footed Gareth Bale' Comparison
Livramento's talents have not gone unnoticed at the highest level, with England manager Thomas Tuchel capping him three times and seeing him as a long-term international prospect. His qualities were also highlighted vividly by former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott.
Speaking to The Mirror, Walcott explained the daunting challenge of facing Livramento in training, drawing a remarkable parallel. "He's kind of a right-footed Gareth Bale in stature and the way he runs, and I feel like he's the perfect wing-back," Walcott said. He added that he actively avoided one-on-one situations with the defender, comparing his physical prowess to that of Kyle Walker in his prime.
Potential Consequences for Arsenal's Defence
Livramento's versatility is a key asset; naturally a right-back, he made his breakthrough at Newcastle on the left side, showcasing an impressive ability to switch flanks. This stylistic flexibility aligns him with Timber and Riccardo Calafiori in Arsenal's squad.
However, his potential arrival could have significant implications for Ben White's role at the club. White has already seen his playing time reduced following Timber's arrival, and the signing of Livramento would likely push him further down the pecking order.
The major question for Arteta will be one of persuasion. With a regular starting spot at Newcastle and a place in the England squad to fight for, would Livramento be content to move to North London to compete for minutes rather than be a guaranteed first choice? Convincing the player may require all of Arteta's renowned man-management skills.
This interest forms part of a broader ambition at Arsenal, with high-profile names like Real Madrid's Rodrygo also linked with a potential £52m move, signalling the club's intent to build a squad capable of sustained success.
