Richard Hughes' first Liverpool signing may end in brutal blow | OneFootball

Liverpool are to receive an offer for Richard Hughes' first signing as sporting director.

El Desmarque reports that Valencia are considering a move for Giorgi Mamardashvili. The goalkeeper left the Spanish side to join Liverpool, agreeing a deal in 2024 before actually linking up with the Reds a year later.

But his lack of minutes has apparently opened the door for Valencia to try and get him back. There's a suggestion here that they'd look into a permanent deal if possible - but the finances involved likely rule one out.

Instead, they'll try to get him back on loan and see if the Reds are agreeable. Though, there's a chance they can find a permanent deal.

Valencia are entitled to 10 per cent of a future sale, so any transfer would be 10 per cent cheaper for them than any other clubs. Similarly, they're entitled to clauses that wouldn't trigger if Mamardashvili moved anywhere else.

If Liverpool are up for letting the goalkeeper leave, then, his old club will be in touch.

Giorgi Mamardashvili: Situation Summary

Current Status and Role

As of March 2, 2026, Giorgi Mamardashvili is serving as the primary understudy to Alisson Becker at Liverpool. After completing his year-long loan back at Valencia following his £30 million transfer in 2024, the Georgian international officially joined Arne Slot's squad for the 2025/26 campaign. His season has been defined by a clear role as the "cup goalkeeper" and injury cover, totaling 11 appearances across all competitions, including four in the Champions League and five in the Premier League during a spell where Alisson was sidelined.

Reported Frustrations and Loan Speculation

Recent reports from late February 2026, including from TEAMtalk and OneFootball, indicate that Mamardashvili is "seriously considering" requesting a loan move for the 2026/27 season. This stems from his desire for consistent first-team minutes, which have been limited by Alisson's continued elite form. While the 25-year-old managed two clean sheets during his run in the side, Alisson remains the established number one with a contract currently running through June 2027.

Future Outlook and Interested Parties

Despite the player's reported dissatisfaction, Liverpool management continues to view Mamardashvili as the long-term successor to the starting role. The club is reportedly "aware" of his concerns but remains committed to his future at Anfield, with his contract set to run until June 2031. However, should a loan be sanctioned to protect his development and market value, Valencia has emerged as a potential destination, with Spanish media reporting that Los Che are "attentive" to the possibility of bringing him back to La Liga temporarily.

Analysis

Liverpool will have a decision to make here. Mamardashvili simply isn’t played because Alisson Becker remains at the club.

It’s difficult to believe that the Georgian would be up for another year stuck on the bench after this one, with the Brazilian’s contract not properly expiring until 2027. And even if he was, we’re not sure Liverpool would want that.

Are they going to put their faith in a goalkeeper who hasn’t really played for two seasons? To replace Alisson? That’s highly unlikely and it feels as though Mamardashvili at least needs a loan move somewhere.

A permanent deal isn’t out of the question, depending on what Alisson wants to do, either. So this is absolutely one to watch for the summer.