Fabrizio Romano confirms £34m Liverpool hijack for Newcastle United target

Fabrizio Romano confirms £34m Liverpool hijack for Newcastle United target

Liverpool are closing in on Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, according to reports.

Newcastle United had been linked with the 23-year-old earlier this summer, with Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford also an option. As it happened, the Magpies signed two backup goalies in John Ruddy and Odysseas Vlachodimos

Eddie Howe is well-stacked between the sticks but Nick Pope still lacks competition for his undisputed No.1 spot. Martin Dubravka exposed his vulnerabilities when given an extended run in the team last season.

Mamardashvili became a household name at Euro 2024 with several stellar performances for Georgia. The Toon links appeared genuine, with Valencia setting a reported £34million price tag

But Liverpool soon emerged as the front-runner for the goalkeeper’s signature despite boasting Alisson in their ranks. The Reds will allow Mamardashvili to rejoin Valencia on loan – a move that is thought to have been key to the deal.

Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed the transfer is “on the verge” of completion. He posted on social media: “The agreement between Liverpool and Valencia for Giorgi Mamardashvili is on the verge of being completed.

“There are still final steps needed on payment terms and deal structure. (The) fee will be €35m, sell-on clause and staying at least one year on loan at Valencia.”

Like Newcastle, Liverpool are also searching for their first major breakthrough in the transfer market. New Reds boss Arne Slot is yet to make a permanent signing but outgoings like Fabio Carvalho and Bobby Clark have freed up funds.