Richard Hughes eager to replace massive signing after one year | OneFootball

Richard Hughes appears ready to give up on one Liverpool signing just a year after his arrival.

Giorgi Mamardashvili was Richard Hughes' first signing as Liverpool sporting director. It was a strange one, though.

Liverpool certainly had no need for a new goalkeeper in 2024 and the signing suggested someone was leaving. Caoimhin Kelleher was the obvious choice and, admittedly, expected to depart.

Only, why would Mamardashvili join Liverpool to be no.2? Well, he didn't at first. The Georgian remained with Valencia for a year on loan before linking up with the Reds in 2025.

£25m of goalkeeper arrived last summer but very much as the backup goalkeeper. It shone a bright light on Alisson Becker's future, who because of a clause in his contract, had a deal until 2027 (and still does).

The big answer appeared to be that Alisson would leave this summer. He's been heavily linked with a move to Italy and it does seem he's going to be sold while Liverpool still can.

So Mamardashvili is the new no.? Not so fast!

Last week saw Liverpool linked with a move for Manchester City's James Trafford. A goalkeeper who, given his situation, is only going to leave City to be a no.1.

And now Apito Final in Portugal claims Liverpool are very interested in a move for Diogo Costa of Porto. Again, a goalkeeper who isn't moving anywhere to be on the bench.

It seems Hughes is eager to move on from the Mamardashvili plan, then. Liverpool are searching for goalkeepers and they're options who will keep their €25m man on the bench.

Giorgi Mamardashvili: Situation Summary

Liverpool Performance and Injury Update

As of 29 April 2026, Giorgi Mamardashvili is currently sidelined after being stretchered off during the Merseyside derby on 19 April. While initially feared to be a long-term issue, scans confirmed he suffered a deep wound to his knee rather than structural damage. Nevertheless, Arne Slot confirmed on 24 April that the 25-year-old will be unavailable for "the upcoming weeks," with a return date tentatively pencilled in for the clash against Manchester United on 3 May. In his debut season at Anfield, Mamardashvili has made 18 appearances across all competitions, including eight in the Premier League, where he has maintained a 67.5% save percentage and kept two clean sheets.

Role and Competition

Mamardashvili’s first season has seen him play significantly more than expected due to Alisson Becker’s recurring fitness issues. His performance levels have prompted reports that Liverpool may look to transition him into the permanent number one role as early as next season, especially with Alisson linked to a move to Juventus. For now, with both senior keepers injured, third-choice Freddie Woodman has been called upon to deputise.

International Standing

The 1.97m shot-stopper remains the undisputed number one for Georgia, having earned 37 caps to date. He is expected to be a key figure for his country at the 2026 World Cup this June, provided his current knee recovery stays on track.