Manchester United is prepared to disrupt Liverpool’s attempt to sign Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, according to reports.

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Manchester United could potentially disrupt Liverpool’s plans to sign Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, with Jadon Sancho’s future potentially playing a crucial role in any potential deal.

The Mirror reports that United are interested in the Georgian international, who has already held talks with Liverpool. However, United must first offload a player from their wage bill, with Sancho being tipped for a move away.

The report states, “Jadon Sancho’s future could hold the key to Manchester United hijacking Liverpool’s move for Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. It is understood Liverpool have already agreed personal terms with Mamardashvili, 23, who starred for Georgia in their run to the last 16 of Euro 2024. The deal could be the first signing of the Arne Slot era, but sources say the 6ft 6in keeper is also very much open to a move to Old Trafford. United, who beat visitors Fulham 1-0 on Friday night in the Premier League’s season opener, are long-time admirers of Mamardashvili but need to trim their squad before bringing in new faces. And the sale of winger Sancho, 24, who was banished back to Borussia Dortmund on loan in January after a bitter fall-out with boss Erik ten Hag, would give United significant room for manoeuvre.”

Arsenal preparing improved bid for Merino

Arsenal are set to make an improved bid of £30 million for Mikel Merino, which is expected to be enough to secure the midfielder’s signature.

The Mail reports that Real Sociedad will accept Arsenal’s latest offer after leaving the Spain international out of their La Liga opener on Sunday.

“Arsenal had an initial offer of £21.5 million rejected but it is believed an improved bid of £30m will be enough to seal the transfer,” states the report. “Sporting director Edu has been in Spain to push negotiations along, with the Euro 2024-winning midfielder open to the move. Merino has one year left on his contract and featured in all seven games for Spain at the Euros. Arsenal’s pursuit has been boosted by Real Sociedad convincing their defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi to stay for the 2024-25 season.”

Chelsea showing interest in Gomez

Chelsea is one of the clubs interested in signing Joe Gomez from Liverpool, according to The Times. The England international was not included in Liverpool’s squad for their opening game of the season against Ipswich, indicating his desire to leave the club.

“Joe Gomez did not travel with Liverpool for their opening Premier League game against Ipswich Town as he explores his options before the transfer window closes,” states the outlet. “Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Fulham, Chelsea, and clubs abroad have all shown interest in the England international. There is no guarantee that Gomez, who is Liverpool’s longest-serving player having signed in 2015, leaves Anfield before the end of the month. Instead, his omission is the result of what have been described as grown-up discussions between the player and Liverpool, who are not forcing the 27-year-old out. Aside from domestic interest, Gomez’s predicament could alert Bayern Munich, who have just sold Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui to Manchester United for £60 million. Should the right move not transpire, then Liverpool will reintegrate Gomez back into Slot’s squad for the season.”