Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili will need to be patient this season after arriving from Valencia for a fee of around $38 million (£29 million), initially as back-up to Alisson Becker.

But former Reds shot-stopper David James believes he is a strong option for Arne Slot to have on his roster.

And long term, Mamardashvili could take over from Alisson as the number one.

David James insists goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili will need to be patient	Ekitike and Mamardashvili moments spotted in Liverpool tunnel cam vs Athletic Bilbao

"You have to understand Liverpool haven’t looked at Mamardashvili and thought 'We need to fill a gap here'," James, who made 277 appearances for the Anfield side between 1992 and 1999, told the PA news agency at an event for Carlsberg.

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Mamardashvili has come in as a direct challenger.

"He will have to believe he is good enough to play for Liverpool, one of the toughest goalkeeping positions in world football.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 04: Giorgi Mamardashvili of Liverpool gestures during the pre-season friendly match between Liverpool v Athletic Club Bilbao at Anfield on August 04, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

"With Mamardashvili, we have got another young, talented goalkeeper.

"If he doesn’t get in the Liverpool side, it will be because he has pushed Ali to be the best and that is what Liverpool want.

"If he does get in the side, it will be because he has been better than Ali, which will mean he will be amazing.