If a recent report from Radio Marca is believed to be true, Liverpool are favourites to secure the services of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia. The La Liga side have already rejected an offer from Newcastle United for the Georgian goalkeeper who has earned accolades for his scintillating display in the ongoing EURO 2024.
The 23-year-old custodian progressed through the academy ranks of Gagra and Dinamo Tbilisi ahead of getting promoted to the latter’s senior setup. After spending a year as an unused substitute, Mamardashvili was loaned out to Rustavi and Locomotive Tbilisi for regular gametime. His excellence between the sticks caught the eyes of Los Ches who tied him down in the summer of 2021.
Although he was initially roped in for their reserve side, an impressive pre-season earned him a first-team status under then boss José Bordalás. The Georgia international went on to make 69 La Liga appearances in a row and his breathtaking performances brought Valencia back in the top half of the league standings after a dreadful 16th-placed finish in the 2022-23 season.
Mamardashvili, currently under contract till June 2027, would cost an astronomical fee following a stellar performance in the European championship. His heroics against Portugal saw them qualify for the knock-outs in their maiden EURO campaign. He not only kept a clean sheet against The Team of The Escutcheons but also made 20 saves in the group stage – seven more than any other keeper at the tournament.
Should Liverpool Splash The Cash For Mamardashvili?
Liverpool are expecting offers for Caoimhín Kelleher as the Republic of Ireland international has reiterated his desire to establish himself as a ‘number 1’. He has spent years as the understudy to Alisson Becker, who on the other hand, has emerged as a summer target for the Saudi Pro League sides. He remains ‘very happy‘ on Merseyside, however, the rumour of Mamardashvili has reignited the questions over the Brazilian’s Anfield future.
A new dawn beacons at Liverpool under Arne Slot who has replaced Jurgen Klopp as the new Reds boss. The Dutchman would prefer fresh inclusions but not at the expense of veterans like Alisson, Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah or Andrew Robertson who are holding the team together with their persona, professionalism, greatness and leadership traits.
Snapping up Mamardashvili would be a statement from Liverpool, but a second-fiddle status does not suit the Georgian shot-stopper who is currently at the pinnacle of his career. With Adrian set to return to Real Betis and Kelleher’s aspirations, Liverpool must focus on recruiting a backup keeper first. A move for the Valencia ace should only be considered if they fail to keep hold of the flamboyant Selecao international.
