Manchester City rule out Tino Livramento move as Pep Guardiola considers deal for Barcelona full-back Jules Kounde has sold Kyle Walker to Burnley

Man City Rule Out Tino Livramento Move as Pep Guardiola Eyes Barcelona’s Jules Koundé After Kyle Walker Exit to Burnley

Manchester City have reportedly cooled their interest in Tino Livramento as Pep Guardiola shifts focus toward a more high-profile alternative to replace outgoing veteran Kyle Walker. With Walker now sold to Burnley in a surprising transfer twist, attention has turned to Barcelona’s versatile full-back Jules Koundé as a potential successor in the right-back role.

Despite earlier speculation linking Livramento with a possible switch to the Etihad, City have decided against pursuing the young Newcastle United defender. Concerns over injuries and his long-term suitability to Guardiola’s tactical system are said to be key reasons behind the decision. The club is instead targeting a player with greater versatility and experience at the highest level.

Enter Jules Koundé. The French international, currently on Barcelona’s books, has reportedly emerged as one of Guardiola’s top choices to reinforce the right side of City’s defense. Known for his pace, composure on the ball, and ability to operate both centrally and wide, Koundé offers the kind of hybrid defensive qualities that City prize.

Guardiola is believed to be a long-time admirer of Koundé, having monitored his development since his time at Sevilla. The Catalan manager values defenders who are comfortable in possession and adaptable to various formations — traits that Koundé has demonstrated consistently, both in La Liga and on the international stage with France.

Walker’s departure marks the end of an era at the Etihad. The England international was a key component in Guardiola’s system, especially in high-pressure games where his recovery speed and leadership were vital. Moving to Burnley in what has been described as a mutual and respectful exit, Walker leaves behind a huge gap in City’s defensive lineup.

City’s interest in Koundé suggests the club is looking to fill that void with a player who not only defends well but can also initiate attacks and slot into midfield roles when required — a hallmark of Guardiola’s full-back strategy in recent seasons.

Barcelona’s financial situation could play into City’s hands. The Spanish giants remain under pressure to balance their books and may be tempted to negotiate if a strong offer is placed on the table. Koundé, while valued by Barça, is not considered untouchable and has at times been played out of position — something the player is reportedly unhappy with.

Sources close to City suggest initial contact has been made with Koundé’s representatives, though no formal bid has been lodged. The player is believed to be open to a Premier League switch, especially if it means working under a manager like Guardiola and competing for major trophies.

Should a move materialize, Koundé would join a City side looking to evolve once again following last season’s domestic and European campaigns. The club’s backline is already filled with elite names such as Rúben Dias, John Stones, and Nathan Aké, and the addition of Koundé would only enhance their defensive flexibility.

Meanwhile, City fans appear split on the decision to pass on Livramento. While many acknowledge his talent and potential, others believe the move for Koundé represents a more immediate and proven solution — especially as the club seeks to maintain its status at the top of English and European football.

Livramento, still in the early stages of his Premier League journey after battling injury, will likely continue to develop at Newcastle where he has shown flashes of brilliance. City’s choice not to pursue him at this stage may not be a reflection of doubt in his ability, but rather a shift in priority as Guardiola looks for more experience.

As the summer transfer window continues, the Koundé-to-City story is expected to gather momentum. Guardiola, never one to rest on past success, appears determined to refresh and fine-tune his squad with players capable of delivering across all competitions.

With Walker gone, João Cancelo out of favor, and youngster Rico Lewis still developing, the need for a top-tier full-back is urgent. Koundé fits the bill — and his arrival would signal a statement of intent as City aim to dominate yet another season.

For now, all eyes remain on Barcelona, Manchester, and the next move in this evolving transfer narrative. But one thing is clear: Pep Guardiola is planning something — and Jules Koundé might just be the next big piece of the puzzle.

Manchester City ‘bid’ £147 million for Chelsea superstar as Guardiola wants ‘to bring him back at whatever costs’

According to rumors, Manchester City have offered Chelsea €170 million (£147 million) to bring Cole Palmer back to the Etihad Stadium this summer.

In 2023, the Citizens traded Palmer to the Blues for £40 million due to Pep Guardiola’s inability to accommodate him in their crowded attack.

Palmer has won 12 England caps and scored 37 goals and 19 assists in 70 Premier League outings since joining Chelsea two seasons ago.

It was a tremendous blunder by Manchester City, and the Citizens apparently want him back and have made a substantial offer in an attempt to entice Palmer to return.

According to Spanish website Fichajes, Chelsea feels confident in retaining this talent till his contract expires in 2033.

However, Manchester City has ‘offered’ €170 million (£147 million) for Palmer, breaking the British transfer record set by Liverpool earlier this summer when they bought Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen.

Pep Guardiola is ‘keen to bring him back at any costs’, and Manchester City ‘knows Palmer can make a difference in their project and doesn’t want to pass up the opportunity to sign him again.

Chelsea “must decide whether to resist the temptation of a multi-million-dollar offer or whether Manchester City can re-sign one of its most valuable players.”

Palmer, who has been linked with Paris Saint-Germain, led Chelsea to a 3-0 victory in the Club World Cup final, scoring two goals and providing an assist.

After the game, a number of his teammates showered praise on the England international, with one declaring Palmer is now “the best in the world”.

Liam Delap, Chelsea’s summer signing from Ipswich, told FIFA: “It was wonderful. He’s a world-class player, and today he demonstrated it.”

Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez said, “Cole Palmer is the best in the world.” If he isn’t already the best, he will be in the next two to three years. He is a top player. He demonstrates that in all of the matchups. He performs magic. He seizes opportunities when they present themselves. Today, he scored two goals, nearly completing a hat trick. Impressive.”

Chelsea’s right back Malo Gusto went on to say, “He’s usually a little independent and reserved. But he is a very decent person. He understands when to speak up. He also knows how to make the crew laugh, which helps them relax. We have a pretty excellent relationship.

“We’re quite pleased to have this type of guy. Cole is now well-known among everyone. Everyone knew him before. He’s a top player, as are many others on our team. He did a lot for us tonight!”

Newcastle Fear Fresh Hijack as Manchester City Move to Re-Sign Former Star in Major Deal

Newcastle United could be bracing themselves for another frustrating twist in the transfer market as Manchester City have reportedly entered advanced talks to re-sign one of their former players. The development has sparked real concern at St. James’ Park, with sources indicating that City’s late intervention could derail what was shaping up to be a key move for Eddie Howe’s side.

The player in question, who had been firmly on Newcastle’s radar for several weeks, is understood to have impressed with his performances since leaving City. The Magpies had identified him as a cornerstone for their next phase of evolution, especially given his experience at the highest level and familiarity with Premier League demands.

Newcastle had made significant strides in discussions, with personal terms reportedly close to being agreed and initial club-to-club conversations progressing well. But now, the re-emergence of Manchester City has thrown everything into doubt, with Pep Guardiola himself believed to have taken a direct interest in the situation.

City’s desire to re-sign their former talent is not without precedent. The club has a history of bringing back players who matured after departing the Etihad, especially if they have the technical profile and tactical intelligence Guardiola demands. For Newcastle, the timing could not be worse.

Eddie Howe and his recruitment team have been working tirelessly to rebuild depth and quality across the pitch. Following some recent disappointments in the market, losing out on yet another key target — especially to a direct competitor — would represent a heavy blow both strategically and psychologically.

The player is said to be torn between two very different propositions. Newcastle are offering a central role in an ambitious project, the chance to be a leading figure, and consistent first-team football. Manchester City, meanwhile, offer silverware, world-class coaching, and the prestige of returning to one of Europe’s elite clubs.

While City might not be able to guarantee a regular starting spot, the allure of playing under Guardiola and being part of a squad that competes for every major trophy remains a huge draw. It’s a dilemma many players have faced: prominence at a rising club or a rotational role at a global giant.

Financially, both clubs are capable of matching the player’s expectations. But Newcastle had hoped the promise of more consistent game time and being central to their upward journey would be enough to seal the deal. That calculation is now being tested.

The Magpies are no strangers to transfer hijacks. Last summer, they were in advanced talks with multiple players only to see late interventions from rival clubs change the narrative. This latest saga has echoes of those past frustrations, and there’s growing pressure on the club to avoid another high-profile setback.

City’s interest appears to have been reignited following scouting reports over the past season, during which the player’s development has accelerated. Club insiders believe his skill set has evolved to fit Guardiola’s demanding system, especially in possession and defensive transitions.

For Newcastle, the prospect of losing out at such a late stage is deeply unsettling. The club had begun preparing for his arrival, both in tactical planning and in backroom discussions. Losing the deal now would force them back into the market with limited time and fewer elite options available.

Negotiations are still ongoing, and both clubs remain hopeful of convincing the player. Newcastle are expected to hold additional meetings with the player’s representatives, emphasizing the scale of the role on offer and the importance of being a focal point in a young, hungry side.

City, meanwhile, are reportedly offering a structured return package, with assurances about development, integration into the squad, and possible succession planning for aging senior players. The long-term picture is appealing, even if the short-term role might be limited.

Supporters of both clubs are watching developments closely. For Newcastle fans, losing this target to City would feel like another reminder of the uphill climb they face to compete at the very top. For City fans, the potential return is being welcomed as smart business and a reward for a player who left to prove himself.

The coming days will be decisive. A final round of talks is expected soon, with the player now faced with a career-defining decision. Does he opt for leadership and regular minutes in Newcastle’s growing project, or does he return to familiar surroundings and fight for glory among the very best?

Both clubs have handled the situation with respect, but the rivalry is evident. Behind closed doors, Newcastle are believed to be furious about the timing of City’s approach, viewing it as a tactical disruption at a sensitive point in negotiations.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the player. His next move will not only shape his own career trajectory but could also influence how Newcastle approach the rest of their summer window. Should they miss out, contingency plans are ready, but the sting of another hijack would linger.

In the ever-unpredictable world of football transfers, nothing is final until pen meets paper. But for now, Newcastle’s hopes hang in the balance — with Manchester City once again proving that their reach, even late in the game, can change everything.