Valencia are playing their cards close to their chest as they look to secure the best price possible for goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
That’s according to journalist Nacho Sanchis, who reports that Newcastle are trying to seal a ‘lightning move’ for the goalkeeper.
They explain that the fact Newcastle want Mamardashvili and are the only team to have made a real move for the Georgian is no secret.
Direct contacts between the relevant parties started a month ago and talks between the goalkeeper and the Magpies are said to have increased in recent weeks.
Newcastle are currently offering a €25m deal including various bonuses that would see the amount exceed €30m. While this would offer Valencia a ‘brutal financial return’ on the player, they want more.
That is why, at this moment in time, their offer is €25m plus bonuses. They absolutely want to add a goalkeeper and Mamardashvili is the one they have their eye on, which is why they are at the stage of stating what they could offer.
They want a ‘lightning move’ and that would benefit Valencia too as it would allow them to sign a replacement quickly, but it would also hurt them because it’s not the amount they were expecting to receive. Thus, they are playing poker in the hope Newcastle up their bid.
Mamardashvili, for his part, remains in contact with the Magpies and the player even made an attempt to say goodbye to the Valencia fans at the Mestalla last weekend. But getting out is not as easy at is seems.
Valencia are obliged to sell but want to do so for a bigger price than is currently being offered, so it remains to be seen if they maintain their stance as the transfer window approaches.
