Chelsea have agreed a £47.38m deal to sign Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra, a move that could have significant repercussions for Newcastle United and their own right-back situation. The 21-year-old Italy international, who impressed on loan at Cagliari last season, is set to sign a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, beating Inter Milan to his signature.
Newcastle's Right-Back Conundrum
Newcastle have identified a new right-back as a key priority this summer following the exits of Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth. Tino Livramento remains at the club but has two years left on his contract, and the Magpies are monitoring the market for both a replacement and potential valuation for the England international.
Livramento played just 26 of Newcastle's 58 matches last season due to fitness issues, which has also given Arsenal and Manchester City reservations about signing him. His withdrawal from England's World Cup squad last week heightened those concerns.
Manchester City Eye Gusto
Palestra's move to Chelsea could free up Malo Gusto to leave Stamford Bridge. Manchester City are keen on the French international, and Chelsea's reported asking price of £75m would serve as a benchmark for Newcastle if they decide to sell Livramento.
Other Right-Back Options
Newcastle have been linked with Strasbourg's Guela Doue, who impressed at the World Cup with Ivory Coast, and Oscar Mingueza, who is set to leave Celta Vigo on a free transfer. Mingueza was linked with an £8m move to Newcastle in January, but Chronicle Live reported at the time that the Magpies would not pursue him. Whether that stance has changed now he is a free agent remains to be seen.
Aston Villa have turned their attention to former Tottenham right-back Emerson Royal, leaving Mingueza's future uncertain.
Transfer Dominoes Falling
With Chelsea's move for Palestra and Manchester City's interest in Gusto, the right-back market is beginning to take shape. Newcastle are expected to be active in the coming weeks as they assess their options for Livramento and potential replacements.
