Newcastle United appear to be changing their transfer approach, as they begin to distance themselves from one of their major targets.
Eddie Howe is looking to make at least four signings this summer, one of which is a goalkeeper.
The Magpies have been linked with some big names – players who would massively threaten Nick Pope’s place in the starting XI. Aaron Ramsdale and Giorgi Mamardashvili are targets, both of which would arrive at St James’ Park expecting to play regularly.
Neither will come cheap either, and that is why Toon officials appear to be having a re-think.
How Newcastle currently feel about signing Giorgi Mamardashvili
That is according to the Northern Echo, who report that Newcastle currently believe Valencia stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili will cost too much money.
They report that the Magpies are unwilling to spend £35million on a player who might end up being on the bench for the entire campaign, and are fearful that his price tag could actually rise after Euro 2024. That is because the 23-year-old is set to represent Georgia at this summer’s major tournament.
Despite holding talks with Mamardashvili’s representatives and him being a player that Eddie Howe really likes, it would appear that a move to St James’ Park is not on the cards.
The Northern Echo’s report would also suggest claims of a £35million bid being made by Newcastle are wide of the mark.
Who Newcastle United could target instead
With Newcastle put off a deal for Mamardashvili because of his price tag, the Magpies will have to take their business elsewhere. And that could lead them to James Trafford.
He has recently been linked with a move to the North East, with a bid for the 21-year-old now considered likely. That will delight Anthony Gordon, who is a big fan of the Burnley goalkeeper.
The Northern Echo report that Newcastle have held initial talks with Trafford, making him aware of their interest in him.
He will cost the Magpies less than Mamardashvili, while he might be better suited to what the club are currently looking for. With no European football next season, Howe is less likely to rotate his goalkeepers. That means he needs a proper number two, with Newcastle seemingly planning to keep faith in Pope for now.
There will come a time when Newcastle need to replace Pope, but it is not an immediate concern. In Trafford, they could get an ideal backup stopper, as well as Pope’s future replacement.
That would surely have to be the plan if Newcastle were to sign Trafford. He is 21-years-old, and is a player with a lot of potential, despite struggling for Burnley during his debut Premier League season.
While signing a top level goalkeeper like Mamardashvili would be perfect, it is not essential. Pope is more than good enough to continue as our number one, so it makes sense for Newcastle to go for a cheaper option who could end up saving them money in the long run.
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