Watch as confirmed Newcastle United summer signing provides insane assist - scary potential
Newcastle United have agreed a deal to sign Georgian sensation Vakhtang Salia this summer.
A certain Georgian forward made waves across Europe last night. And no, we’re not talking about Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Paris Saint-Germain superstar who put Aston Villa to the sword at the Parc des Princes…
As the PSG sensation put Emiliano Martinez on his backside for his team’s second in the Champions League, a future Newcastle United wonderkid did the business for Dinamo Tbilisi. While a mere consolation, Vakhtang Salia’s mazy run to set up Teimuraz Odikadze gave Toon fans a glimpse of what is to come.
Newcastle fought off interest from European heavyweights to sign the 17-year-old earlier this year. Youth investment has been a key priority for the Magpies since the Saudi-backed ownership arrived three-and-a-half years ago.
Yankuba Minteh is the most notable name to arrive before being flipped for a £26million profit a year later. The hope is that youth talent can star for Eddie Howe’s first team or, if they do not make the cut, are sold to help comply with PSR regulations.
And on last night’s evidence, Salia - a Georgian youth international - looks as though he has the credentials to excel in Howe’s attack-minded team. Footage from Dinamo’s clash with Saburtalo shows the forward dancing down the left flank and skinning his defender before whipping a vicious cross to Odikadze to fire home.
Vakhtang Salia provided a fantastic assist off the bench for Dinamo Tbilisi last night! 🇬🇪
— Magpie Media (@MagpieMediaX) April 10, 2025
Great direct play there, skilfully beating his opponent with lightning pace before fizzing in an accurate cross. His teammate could hardly miss. 🎯
The 17-year old forward now has two… pic.twitter.com/TBDXP5ylTD
Eddie Howe excited to work with Newcastle United signing
Howe revealed he has already spoken to the youngster following his arrival. Salia visited Tyneside before jetting back to Georgia to complete the rest of the campaign.
“I managed to have a good conversation with him, his family and his representatives,” he said. “He seemed like a really good lad. Great attitude. Hungry to learn. His next step is slightly unclear but certainly a talented young player.”
Vakhtang Salia ‘dreams’ about playing at St James’ Park
Salia cannot wait to get going at St James’ Park and referenced compatriot Temur Kestbaia in his first Newcastle interview. He told NUFC TV: “The first time I heard it (Newcastle were interested) I could not believe it. It was big news for me.
“I have been to (visit) the first team training ground, the academy and the stadium. It’s been amazing so far. It’s my dream to play at St James’ Park - and I think it’s everyone’s dream to play there.
“My father and my agent convinced me that two Georgians played here. I haven’t met him (Ketsbaia) but I hope I will meet him soon. The club has a big history.
“I don’t think I can play in just one position. I can play more. Just let me play and I will prove it. I don’t like to think about myself. I let other people talk about me.”