Newcastle target five right-backs as Livramento injury exposes squad gap

Newcastle United have intensified their search for a right-back after Tino Livramento was ruled out of England’s World Cup squad with a calf injury, leaving Eddie Howe with a significant gap in his defensive options heading into the new Premier League season. The 23-year-old’s absence is compounded by the departures of Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, meaning Livramento was the club’s only recognised senior right-back before his setback.

Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson had already identified the position as a priority, but Livramento’s time on the treatment table has sharpened the urgency. Mirror Football has identified five candidates Newcastle could pursue this summer.

Guela Doue is among the most eye-catching options. The elder brother of Paris Saint-Germain forward Desire Doue, the 27-year-old has impressed for Strasbourg in Ligue 1 this season and is representing Ivory Coast at the World Cup. He joined Strasbourg from Rennes for £5m in 2024, and the club’s reported financial difficulties mean an offer in the region of £25m could be enough to secure a deal.

Josh Acheampong is another name linked with a move to Tyneside. The 20-year-old Chelsea academy product is highly regarded at Stamford Bridge, and the Blues are believed to be reluctant to sell. His pace and work ethic are seen as a strong fit for Newcastle’s style, though he would represent a long-term project rather than an immediate solution.

Oscar Mingueza offers a different proposition entirely. The 27-year-old Celta Vigo defender, a former Barcelona La Masia graduate, is available on a free transfer — a significant advantage given Newcastle’s PSR constraints. Spanish outlet AS reports that both Newcastle and Arsenal are competing for his signature, with the Spaniard keen on a Premier League move.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is a more familiar name in English football. The DR Congo international suffered relegation with West Ham last season but brings proven top-flight experience, having also played for Manchester United and Crystal Palace. His reputation as one of the best one-on-one defenders in the country makes him an attractive option at a reduced price.

Vanderson, the Brazilian international currently at Monaco, has reportedly been on Newcastle’s radar for several years. The 24-year-old offers technical quality and positional flexibility, though he is expected to command a higher fee than most of the other candidates under consideration.