Liverpool make Mamardashvili 1st signing of Slot era

Liverpool have agreed to sign goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from LaLiga side Valencia, making him the first incoming transfer under new manager Arne Slot, the clubs confirmed Tuesday.

The 23-year-old, who helped Georgia reach the round of 16 during their first appearance at a major tournament at Euro 2024, will remain with Valencia until the end of this season before moving to Anfield next summer.

ESPN reported last week that Valencia and Liverpool were discussing a fee in the region of €40 million ($44 million) for Mamardashvili, who joined the Spanish side in 2021.

Brazil international Alisson Becker and Republic of Ireland No. 1 Caoimhín Kelleher remain the senior goalkeepers at Liverpool, but the move for Mamardashvili is viewed as planning for a future when either Alisson or Kelleher leave the club.

Mamardashvili has started all but one LaLiga game for Valencia over the past two seasons.

Slot has said he is happy with the strength of his existing squad, but a deal for Mamardashvili signals the first major signing of his time in charge.