Howe has had to deal with the club being unable to land a number of his main transfer targets so far, such as Hugo Ekitike, Bryan Mbeumo, James Trafford and Liam Delap, while star man Alexander Isak desperately wants out, and so keeping Livramento would serve as a big boost in the face of numerous setbacks.

The signing of Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa has plugged the gap left by Sean Longstaff ’s departure, with Howe now having six central midfielders to pick from this season. Joe Willock’s current injury issues and recent fitness track record will also be a concern for the club going forward.

The summer has been dominated by the transfer window, and with more than two weeks to go until it closes on September 1, that's not likely to change even with the return of the action on the pitch. Newcastle remain embroiled in a messy situation over Alexander Isak's future, with the Swedish striker unavailable for Saturday's lunchtime kick-off.

Lewis Miley's future at Newcastle has been uncertain as they aim to consolidate themselves in the Premier League's top five this season.