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£38m player could be Arne Slot’s first Liverpool signing but he may not arrive until 2026

Liverpool are closing in on their first signing of the summer but fans still face a lengthy wait to see him in action.

It has been a frustrating transfer window for Liverpool so far, with the Merseyside club still yet to get a new signing over the line.

It hasn’t been for a lack of trying. Liverpool were rejected by Martin Zubimendi despite being willing to match his release clause at Real Sociedad.

They are still in the market for a central midfielder and Liverpool have made Teun Koopmeiners their No.1 target after missing out on Zubimendi.

But it’s looking increasingly likely that their first signing of the summer could be a goalkeeper with Giorgi Mamardashvili expected to join Liverpool despite interest from Manchester United.

However, it may be a while until the Georgia shot-stopper gets his chance at Anfield.

Spain v Georgia: Round of 16 - UEFA EURO 2024
Photo by Oliver Kaelke/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Liverpool have long-term plan for £38m target

Liverpool are in pole position to strike a deal for highly-rated Giorgi Mamardashvili, but with Alisson cementing his spot as the first-choice goalkeeper it is difficult to see the 23-year-old getting many opportunities.

According to , Liverpool’s interest in Mamardashvili is about long-term succession planning beyond Alisson.

They aren’t looking to recruit a goalkeeper for this season and therefore if they agree a fee for Mamardashvili he wouldn’t arrive at Anfield until 2025 or 2026.

Instead, Liverpool are discussing loan options for Mamardashvili, who is valued at £38million (€45million) by Valencia.

Premier League side Bournemouth have shown an interest in a loan deal but Premier League rules would stop Liverpool from loaning their new signing straight to the Cherries this summer.

Liverpool will need signings now

Arne Slot has enjoyed a great start to life as Liverpool manager with a successful pre-season followed by a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town in his first Premier League clash.

READ MORE: Liverpool owners could bankroll £297m investment as talks in America key

But things will only get more difficult for the Dutchman as the season progresses and a lack of depth could hurt the Reds if they are hit with a wave of injuries.

After missing out on Zubimendi, it is essential that Liverpool do not end the summer window with their only signing being a goalkeeper that might not even join for another two years.