Liverpool is set to accelerate their transfer activities over the coming weeks, with a particular focus on securing a long-term successor for their current goalkeeper, Alisson Becker. Reports suggest that the Reds are determined to sign Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia, with a potential transfer fee of around £26 million.
Alisson Becker’s Reign and Future Prospects
Since joining Liverpool from Roma in 2018, Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been the club’s undisputed No. 1. As he approaches his 32nd birthday, Liverpool is proactively seeking a long-term replacement to ensure continued strength in goal. Although there has been little speculation about Alisson’s immediate future, the club is preparing for a gradual transition.
Negotiations for Mamardashvili
According to Spanish publication Relevo, Liverpool negotiators are scheduled to meet with Valencia officials this week to finalize a deal for Mamardashvili. The 23-year-old goalkeeper impressed at Euro 2024, making him a prime target for the Reds. Liverpool views Alisson as their primary goalkeeper for at least another year but is keen to secure Mamardashvili now to avoid a potential price hike and increased competition in the future.
Mamardashvili’s Potential Move to Anfield
Mamardashvili is reportedly open to joining Liverpool, even with the understanding that he will play second fiddle to Alisson initially. There is also a possibility of a loan deal, with Bournemouth being a potential temporary destination. Bournemouth has shown strong interest in a permanent move for Mamardashvili and has the funds to meet the £26 million valuation. However, Liverpool remains the frontrunner and aims to finalize the deal soon.
Liverpool’s Goalkeeping Depth
Aside from Alisson, Liverpool boasts Irish goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, whom Jurgen Klopp has praised as the best second-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League. Despite this, Kelleher has been linked with a move to a club where he could become the first-choice goalkeeper, though no deal has materialized yet.
Broader Transfer Plans at Anfield
Sporting director Richard Hughes is expected to have a busy few weeks ahead. New head coach Arne Slot has spent the past month evaluating the squad he inherited from Klopp. With some positive pre-season results, Slot has likely identified areas needing reinforcement, including a new defender and another forward. The futures of key players Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz also remain uncertain, adding to the potential transfer activities.
Conclusion
Liverpool’s proactive approach in securing Giorgi Mamardashvili indicates their commitment to maintaining a strong goalkeeping lineup as Alisson Becker approaches the later stages of his career. With negotiations set to intensify, the Reds are poised to bolster their squad further, ensuring continued competitiveness in the Premier League and beyond.
