Giorgi Mamardashvili closing in on Liverpool deal | What's happening in Liverpool?

Liverpool are in the last stages of securing the signature of the Georgian keeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili, from Valencia. The deal includes allowing the Georgian to play in the Spanish league for one more season on loan before officially joining the English giants, Liverpool. So technically, on paper, the transfer to England will be officially complete in 2025.  

As Liverpool is also trying to secure the signature of Basque-faithful Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, the English club faces the issue of contract expiration of several other key players. They had already faced the departure of pivotal figures such as Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane, James Milner, and Jordan Henderson, just to name a few, who were key in their victories in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League campaigns.  

In addition to these blows, Jurgen Klopp’s coaching break added some minor problems to the ongoing project. Despite some major names still emerging in the squad list for the 24/25 season, there have been no concrete efforts to secure the long-term plan ahead, as they are yet to extend the contracts of some of their star players that make up the core of the team.  

Mohamed Salah, who hit the milestone of getting 350 goal contributions this week, is up for grabs next season as his contract is running out, making him a potential target for all European giants. The Egyptian, who will be regarded as a Premier League legend, is yet to give an indication to the fans regarding his contract. Despite this uncertainty, he appears very comfortable at his club. With his new role under the Dutch manager, Arne Slot, he has been looking ruthless since the pre-season, and it was particularly evident in Liverpool’s opener versus Ipswich Town.  

Trent Alexander-Arnold, another pivotal figure in Liverpool’s squad, has also remained silent about his contract situation. The English right-back is one of the most key players for the system that relies heavily on inverting and creating.

Due to these flares, the European champions, Real Madrid, were attracted and interested in securing the deal for Arnold as they lack these qualities after losing out on Toni Kroos. The player would arrive on a free to Real Madrid if Liverpool fails to secure his deal at Anfield.  

Virgil Van Dijk, another core player of the Reds, who is entering the final year of his contract, is set to be a free agent in the summer of 2026 unless the club decides to renew his contract for a couple more years.

Throughout his time at Anfield, the Dutch defender has been the main center-back of the defense, consistently partnered up with different other CBs in Joel Matip, Ibrahima Konate, and Jarell Quansah. The 33-year-old still has what it takes to compete at the highest stage and undoubtedly warrants consideration for his extension. However, it does not feel like the end of the world to cash in on him due to the age factor and invest in other options as they plan ahead for the future.  

The departure of Jurgen Klopp this season raised significant questions about his successor, but Liverpool look comfortable under the command of Arne Slot, as evident in their performances. Despite this smooth transition, the English club has been somewhat slow in the market and will require heavy reinvestments should they lose their key figures who have been instrumental in their glory seasons in the past.