European giant completes signing to replace £35m star who is tipped for move to Newcastle United

Spanish giants Valencia have already signed a replacement for Newcastle-linked goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is expected to leave the Mestalla Stadium this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian transfer guru understands that Newcastle are huge admirers of Mamardashvili and claims that Eddie Howe’s recruitment team has watched the 23-year-old on several occasions throughout the season.

Mamardashvili has enjoyed a brilliant campaign in Spain and has quickly established himself as one of the most talented goalkeepers in the division. 

The Georgian international, who helped his country achieve Euro 2024 qualification for the first time in their history, has been an ever-present since the midpoint of the 2021/22 season and boasts one of the best defensive records in the division this term; conceding just 43 times in 38 games.

He stands at 6ft6 and is a huge presence in goal. He is renowned for his ability to come off the line and command his penalty area and is lauded for his excellent shot-stopping ability.

Romano claims that Newcastle and Atletico Madrid are the main contenders for his signature and adds that Valencia’s signing of Stole Dimitrievski from Rayo Vallecano has been made with Mamardashvili’s departure in mind.

He posted on X: “Stole Dimitrievski to Valencia, here we go! The Macedonian GK has signed a four year deal, valid until June 2028.

“Mamardashvili, expected to leave with several clubs interested including Newcastle and Atlético Madrid.”

Mamardashvili’s potential arrival comes amid reports of a departure for Martin Dubravka. The 35-year-old Slovakian international is out of contract in the summer of 2025 and is reportedly the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia.

Third choice goalkeeper Loris Karius is set to leave on a free transfer in the summer, having made just two appearances in two seasons. Meanwhile, Mark Gillespie has one year remaining on his contract and is expected to remain a part of the goalkeeping team as a back-up option.