Vakhtang Salia nightmare now explained after Newcastle United transfer

Last year, Newcastle United announced the signing of Georgian talent Vakhtang Salia.

Speaking in October 2024, former sporting director Paul Mitchell said: “We’re delighted to get ahead of a number of other top clubs to sign Vakhtang.

“We continue to scout extensively, both domestically and overseas, with a view to securing players who can come through our talent pathway and, ideally, become part of the first team in future."

As agreed, the teenage winger would spend the remainder of the 2024/25 season with Georgian giants Dinamo Tibilisi, then officially arrive on Tyneside upon turning 18 in August this year.

That date has come and gone, yet we haven't seen him feature in any of our sides, senior or Under-21, and he did not secure a summer loan move, unlike Antonio Cordero (KVC Westerlo) or Trevan Sanusi (Lorient).

His absence has been a bit of a mystery, but it's now been explained by the club's new Under-21 boss Adam Lawrence, who reveals that an injury has seriously hampered his first few months at the club:

"Everyone was devastated that he has come into the club and got the injury.

"He’s an outstanding young man around the training ground with how he conducts himself.

"I’m sure in his mind it’s been really tough for him but he hasn’t shown that. He’s stayed really positive."

Salia is hoping to be back in early 2026, reports Dominic Scurr of the Shields Gazette, meaning his injury frustrations look set to continue over the festive period.

This could scupper any hopes of a January loan move, but we will hopefully see the 18-year-old feature for our Under-21s in the Premier League 2 over the second half of 2025/26.

Discussing the move back in January, Salia said: “The first time I heard it [Newcastle were interested] I could not believe it. It was big news for me. I have been to (visit) the first team training ground, the academy and the stadium. It’s been amazing so far.

“It’s my dream to play at St James’ Park – and I think it’s everyone’s dream to play there. My father and my agent convinced me that two Georgians played here. I haven’t met him (Temur Ketsbaia) but I hope I will meet him soon. The club has a big history.

“I don’t think I can play in just one position. I can play more. Just let me play and I will prove it. I don’t like to think about me – I let other people talk about me.”

“It’s a big challenge for me and I have motivation to play outside of Georgia. It’s a move that every professional has to make to follow their dreams.”

Speed recovery, Vakhtang!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5sA04slZyA