Breaking news: Newcastle United in race against time for £35m target as Chelsea eye another transfer steal

Newcastle United are actively seeking a new goalkeeper before the summer ends, but they are facing a tight deadline to secure a deal for Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili. The Georgian goalkeeper wants his future resolved before Euro 2024 begins in less than two weeks, and Valencia is determined to receive a reported €40 million (£35 million) for his services. Mamardashvili’s emotional farewell to Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium in their final home game of the season has heightened the interest in his signature.

Newcastle is among the clubs interested in Mamardashvili, but Chelsea has recently been linked with a move for the 23-year-old, seeking a replacement for departing goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Bayern Munich had a close deal with Mamardashvili last summer, while Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have also been mentioned as potential suitors.

Chelsea has been monitoring Giorgi Mamardashvili, sending scouts to watch him. Additionally, they are considering moves for Filip Jörgensen from Villarreal and Álvaro Valles from Las Palmas. Newcastle United, meanwhile, is also in the hunt for Mamardashvili but faces a tight deadline. They have also been linked with James Trafford from Burnley and Aaron Ramsdale from Arsenal as Eddie Howe seeks to bolster his goalkeeping options.

Valencia’s manager, Ruben Baraja, has emphasized the importance of a suitable offer and the player’s willingness to leave the club. He stated that circumstances need to occur before they can make a decision on selling Mamardashvili or Javi Guerra, who is also a subject of interest. Baraja emphasized that they cannot allow the team to be dismantled, implying that they will not sell unless the conditions are right.

Chelsea appears to be on the verge of signing Tosin Adarabioyo, who was previously close to joining Newcastle United. After weeks of negotiations, the defender has seemingly had a change of heart and is now set to join the Blues instead of the Magpies.

Newcastle was in a strong position to secure Adarabioyo’s signature as a free agent, but Chelsea’s late intervention has led to the player’s U-turn. The London club has managed to convince Adarabioyo to join them, despite Newcastle’s earlier advantage in the race for his services.

Newcastle United’s 2023/24 season has come to a close, marking a tumultuous year that included the return of Champions League football, significant signings, numerous injuries, and a lengthy suspension for one of Eddie Howe’s key players. The season had its highs and lows, memorable matches, and a remarkable victory over Paris Saint-Germain, all of which are detailed and analyzed in our season review special.

This publication provides a comprehensive review of each month of the campaign, offering in-depth analysis, exclusive interviews with Dan Burn and Bruno Guimaraes, and special features showcasing fans both at home and on their travels. Our writers highlight standout players, discuss key takeaways from the season, and assess where the historic win against PSG ranks among Newcastle United’s greatest European triumphs. Priced at just £3.50, you can purchase this special edition in our online store.