Newcastle United in talks to sign ‘future star’ compared to Real Madrid legend Gareth Bale

Newcastle United transfer target Tino Livramento has been labelled a future star by one of his former Southampton teammates.

Former England and Arsenal forward Theo Walcott played with Livramento for two years and believes the 20-year-old has similarities to Wales legend Gareth Bale.

Magpies’ sporting director Dan Ashworth is a massive admirer of the 20-year-old full-back as talks continue with the Saints over a potential deal.

“You can see now his aura around the place has changed completely which is really nice to see,” Walcott told talkSPORT in November 2021. “He’s not as shy or timid around the place, he’s got a bit more of a presence.

“It just shows that there is a future star but again, we need to be careful like we always do. I can’t complain, he’s been absolutely fantastic.

“Do you know what, he actually reminds me a little bit of Gareth [Bale] when he came through as a full-back. I know that’s a big statement, of course, but I just feel like his presence and the way he drives - the pace, the power.

There are no surprises, you know what he’s going to do but he’s just so strong with the ball and very clever. Technically, he’s fantastic. It feels like he’s going to have a very good career.”

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Livramento was snapped by Southampton for just £4million from Chelsea. He quickly emerged as one of the Premier League’s most exciting right backs before his ACL injury in April 2022.

He was forced to spend 12 months on the sidelines before returning for the remaining two games of last season.

Ashworth believes Livramento is an England international in the making and sees him as a long-term replacement for Kieran Trippier, who turns 34 next year.