Liverpool’s bid to sign Khvicha Kvaratskhelia faces stiff competition, with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) reportedly securing a verbal agreement with Napoli for the Georgian winger. This marks a significant development in the race for the 23-year-old’s signature, who has been heavily linked with Liverpool in recent months. Here’s a closer look at the situation:
PSG and Kvaratskhelia’s Deal
- Verbal Agreement with PSG: According to Fabrizio Romano, PSG have reached an agreement in principle with Napoli for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The deal is reportedly valued at €70 million (£58 million), with potential add-ons. This agreement marks a major step in the French club’s efforts to secure the winger, who has been one of the standout performers in Serie A.
- Five-Year Deal: A five-year contract has reportedly been prepared for Kvaratskhelia, with Luis Enrique‘s side now looking to finalize the deal. This shows PSG’s strong intentions to land the winger, and Kvaratskhelia could be poised for a significant move to the French capital.
Liverpool’s Long-Standing Interest
- Liverpool’s Interest: Liverpool has been a long-time admirer of Kvaratskhelia. The club’s interest in the Napoli star was well-known, and recent reports suggested that Liverpool could enter the race to sign him should Napoli decide to move him on. The potential move made sense for Arne Slot, with Liverpool needing attacking reinforcements in the squad.
- Linking Kvaratskhelia to Liverpool: The Athletic had previously suggested that Liverpool could target the winger as part of their squad rebuild, especially if Napoli were open to selling him. With the Reds needing a player with Kvaratskhelia’s qualities, his ability to play as a left-winger with pace and technical flair made him an ideal candidate for Jurgen Klopp’s squad.
Transfer Request and Napoli’s Situation
- Kvaratskhelia’s Transfer Request: Over the weekend, Napoli manager Antonio Conte revealed that Kvaratskhelia had handed in a transfer request, signaling his intent to leave the club this January. This development opened up the possibility for a departure, with several clubs, including Liverpool, monitoring the situation.
- Napoli’s Likely Exit: Despite the interest from Liverpool, it now seems likely that PSG will win the race for the winger, who has had a highly impressive spell in Italy since joining from Dinamo Batumi in 2022. With a large financial offer on the table and PSG‘s strong ambitions, the deal seems almost finalized.
Why PSG Are Leading the Race
- PSG’s Financial Power: While Liverpool had hoped to capitalize on Kvaratskhelia’s availability, PSG‘s financial strength gives them a significant advantage in securing the winger. The report suggests that the deal is already agreed in principle, and PSG’s readiness to pay the €70 million transfer fee plus add-ons makes it difficult for Liverpool to compete, especially if Napoli is keen on maximizing their return on the player.
- Luis Enrique’s Plan: PSG manager Luis Enrique is reportedly keen on adding Kvaratskhelia to his squad, as the winger fits into the tactical structure of the team. The move would strengthen PSG’s wide positions and provide more dynamism in their attack.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
- Liverpool’s Next Steps: With PSG taking the lead in the race, Liverpool will have to look for alternative targets to strengthen their attack in January. The club has expressed a desire to add quality to their squad, but with Kvaratskhelia seemingly out of reach, attention may turn to other potential signings.
- Arne Slot’s Plans: Arne Slot will likely continue to evaluate other potential signings in the wide positions, especially given Darwin Nunez’s struggles and Luis Diaz’s injury concerns. Kvaratskhelia’s move to PSG leaves Liverpool with the challenge of identifying a new target to meet their attacking needs.
The transfer battle for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia appears to be PSG’s to lose, with the French giants reportedly having a verbal agreement in place with Napoli for a deal worth €70 million. Despite Liverpool’s interest, it seems increasingly unlikely that they will be able to land the winger this January. PSG’s financial muscle and their readiness to finalize the deal could see Kvaratskhelia heading to Paris, while Liverpool will now need to explore other avenues to bolster their squad.