Newcastle United Are In Talks To Recruit This La Liga Keeper: Should Howe Move In For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, AS claimed that Newcastle United are in talks to recruit Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili this summer. It has been mentioned that the Magpies are eyeing a move to lure the Georgian custodian to St. James’ Park later this year.

Mamardashvili has enjoyed an impressive campaign at the Spanish club after putting in a handful of solid displays in goal for them in La Liga. The Georgian talent has made 36 appearances for Valencia this season, conceding 39 goals and keeping 13 clean sheets in multiple competitions.

The 23-year-old has caught the eye at times by averaging 1.1 clearances and 5.6 long balls per game in La Liga. However, he has been untidy with his ball distribution as he has made 46.7% of his attempted passes in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).

Mamardashvili’s current contract at Valencia will expire in the summer of 2027. Hence, Newcastle United would have to launch a big offer if they are serious about recruiting the Georgian keeper in the upcoming transfer period.

VALENCIA, SPAIN – MAY 12: Giorgi Mamardashvili of Valencia CF looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Valencia CF and Rayo Vallecano at Estadio Mestalla on May 12, 2024 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Move In For Mamardashvili?

Mamardashvili is a solid handler of the ball and has got decent reflexes that help him make a few important saves at the back for his team. He usually goes long with his goal-kicks but needs to find a way to improve his passing accuracy if he wants to be a success story at a club like Newcastle United.

Standing at 1.97m, Mamardashvili is a towering presence inside his half. However, there are some concerns over whether he can make a smooth transition to life in Premier League football if the Magpies manage to sign him later this year.

We can expect Mamardashvili to bring more quality to Eddie Howe’s goalkeeping department. He is good enough to rival Nick Pope for regular first-team football at St. James’ Park next season. Therefore, Newcastle would be wise to move in for him in the summer transfer window.

At 23, Mamardashvili would be a great signing for the Magpies in the long run as he could help them compete for some major honours over the next decade. However, Howe needs to be patient with his progress as the player might need some time to settle into life in England.