Tottenham are reportedly hot on the trail of Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili with talks over his future likely to heat up once the current season comes to a close.
The north London giants are preparing for a huge summer of change. Their first priority will be the appointment of a new manager to permanently succeed Antonio Conte. And with Ryan Mason also failing to yield an upturn in fortunes after the failed Cristian Stellini appointment, the club are likely to turn overseas in their hunt for a new boss.
To that end, Feyenoord boss Arne Slot is now emerging as favourite to take over the reins.
His is not the only appointment on their agenda though this summer, with a new director of football also required. To that end, a replacement for Fabio Paratici is required after the Italian was forced to resign from his role. His departure may also lead to the abandoning of a long-time planned £30m signing.
Whoever the two men are that come in will have a huge job on their hands. Tottenham have let slip a place in the top four and could finish as low as ninth this season.
In addition, there are several issues within the squad that also need addressing. The primary job will likely be on persuading Harry Kane to sign a new deal. His current arrangement expires in summer 2024 and the drop-off in standards at Spurs has led to heightening fears that the England skipper could depart.
The club are also in need of several squad additions, namely a new No 1 to succeed veteran star Hugo Lloris.
Spurs keen on Valencia keeper Mamardashvili, says Ornstein
The Frenchman, now in his 11th season at the club, will go down as one of the club’s greatest ever imports.
However, his form has significantly dropped off this season and the veteran has lost his place to Fraser Forster.
As such, the signing of a new first-choice keeper will become priority focus for the new manager.
A number of options are reportedly under consideration, ranging from Jordan Pickford, Gavin Bazunu and David Raya.
Now, according to David Ornstein, Spurs are also looking at Valencia’s highly-rated stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
The 22-year-old Georgian star has been one of the few bright lights in a difficult season for Los Che.
Fighting relegation for much of the season, Valencia battled their way to a priceless 1-0 win against Real Madrid on Sunday.
And while the game was marred by racist abuse aimed towards Vinicius Junior, Mamardashvili played a vital role in the win.
Indeed, he made several vital saves to keep Los Blancos at bay and help Valencia to a vital victory.
Per Ornstein’s column in The Athletic, the Georgian is likely to leave the Mestalla this summer with Spurs among his suitors.
Tottenham learn goalkeeper can leave for less than release clause
Any deal, though, does looks difficult given the €100m (£86.9m) exit clause in his deal. However, there is a feeling in Spain that Valencia will sell for significantly less.
While nothing has been confirmed yet, Mamardashvili is in talks with his representatives over a possible move away.
He’s reportedly making it clear he’s open to a move. However, he will only consider signing for a club where he will be established as No 1.
Tottenham, however, will not have a clear run at his signing.
Per The Athletic, Aston Villa are also keen, were they to lose No 1 choice Emiliano Martinez this summer. And there is also interest from within Spain and Portugal with Villarreal, Atletico Madrid and Porto also monitoring his progress.
Mamardashvili’s contract with Valencia runs until 2027. However, there is a feeling that seven-times capped star will be sold for the right price. With finances tight and team rebuilding needed, Valencia – who now look to survive – want to ensure they don’t suffer a relegation repeat next season.
READ MORE: Alan Shearer tells ‘loyal’ Tottenham star to seriously consider Man Utd move, with blessing of fans
The article Tottenham transfers: Top source reveals Levy wish to break bank for €100m Valencia star; Emery considers Villa hijack appeared first on Teamtalk.com.