Manchester City strengthened their squad with several new additions this summer but also saw the departure of some key figures.
Among the stories surrounding their transfer business was a surprising report that City had at one stage considered a plan to swap Rico Lewis for Tino Livramento of Newcastle United.
For many years, Kyle Walker was the undisputed leader in the Manchester City right-back position. Signed from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017, Walker became Pep Guardiola’s go-to defender whenever City faced the world’s most dangerous wingers.
His recovery pace, defensive solidity, and ability to adapt to Guardiola’s tactical demands made him a legend at the Etihad.
After years of service and multiple trophies, Walker departed in the summer to join Burnley, leaving a significant void in City’s defence.
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In the absence of Walker, Guardiola has experimented with different options in the Manchester City right-back position.
Rico Lewis, a 20-year-old academy graduate, and midfielder Matheus Nunez have often filled the role despite openly admitting that their preference is to operate in midfield.
While both have shown versatility and quality, the lack of a natural right-back has been a concern as City target Premier League title and Champions League glory.
City Considered Move For Tino Livramento
In their search for a natural right-back, City looked at several options.
According to TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey, Rico Lewis was discussed in a potential deal for Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento earlier this summer.
Bailey explained that the academy graduate was mentioned when the Sky Blues were discussing the possibility of signing Livramento as Kyle Walker replacement.
Livramento, who joined Newcastle from Southampton, is regarded as one of the most promising young full-backs in the league.
His pace, ball-carrying ability, and defensive awareness have made him a rising star.
While City’s discussions never materialised into a full deal, the fact that they planned to swap Rico Lewis for Tino Livramento shows how seriously Guardiola and his staff were considering reshaping the Manchester City right-back position after Walker’s departure.
Rico Lewis Signs New Contract Amid Speculation
Amid these transfer rumours, City have made it clear they still value Rico Lewis as part of their long-term project.
The youngster has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until at least 2030, cementing his role in the squad.
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This move underlines Guardiola’s trust in Lewis, who broke into the first team two season ago and has continued to impress with his composure on the ball and tactical intelligence.
Despite repeatedly stating that he prefers to play in midfield, Lewis remains a strong candidate to start in the Manchester City right-back position when required.
