Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has become a focal point of attention as he appears to be seeking a departure from Napoli, according to statements made by manager Antonio Conte. The winger has notably been omitted from Napoli’s squad for their upcoming match against Hellas Verona, sparking further speculation regarding his future. Negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly in motion, aiming to finalize a lucrative transfer deal that could see the Georgian international making a significant move to France.
Italian media outlets indicate that PSG is nearing a financial agreement, potentially valued at around €70 million (£59m/$71m), which has undoubtedly piqued interest across the football community. Conte confirmed that Kvaratskhelia has expressed his desire to leave, stating that it was rather disappointing given the efforts made to integrate him into the club’s vision over the past six months.
The Georgian winger’s performances this season have been noteworthy; he has netted five goals and provided three assists in 17 Serie A appearances. Kvaratskhelia has a contract with Napoli that extends until 2027, which contributes to his elevated market value. This situation has compelled Conte to rethink strategies regarding a replacement, with reports linking Dejan Kulusevski—who previously worked under Conte at Tottenham—as a potential candidate.
Amidst ongoing discussions, PSG’s initial offer reportedly included a swap involving players Milan Skriniar and Marco Asensio. However, this bid was turned down by Napoli, suggesting that the club remains resolute in securing a cash-only deal that aligns with their financial expectations. Fabrizio Romano has hinted that PSG has already met Kvaratskhelia’s contractual demands, positioning him for a significant salary increase, potentially magnifying his earnings to five times his current wages in Italy.
Conte further elaborated on his sentiments regarding Kvaratskhelia’s request for a transfer, expressing disappointment that his attempts to instill a sense of commitment towards Napoli’s project have not succeeded. He mentioned feeling regret that he could not foster a stronger resolve in the player to remain with the team, highlighting the emotional investment he placed in his development. “Kvara has asked to be sold. The club told me and he confirmed it: I feel very disappointed, because in these 6 months I have put him at the centre of the project making him understand that something important could be done and I have worked with the club for the renewal, instead we are back to the beginning.”
He added: “Evidently I have not been so incisive in convincing the parties to move forward together, today I find myself at a point where I have to take a step back. I cannot keep in chains those who do not want to stay: I did it in the summer, I had 6 months to convince them to find the solution and therefore it was a bolt from the blue.
“I would never want him to think that I vetoed him and chained him if he were to stay: this summer I did it convinced that I would convince him to embrace the goodness of the project, but I didn’t succeed.”
The manager emphasized the importance of resolving the matter swiftly, stating, “It’s right that Napoli, Kvara and his entourage resolve the situation; the problem is between them.” He reiterated that Kvaratskhelia would not be part of the squad for the match against Verona, indicating that the focus must now shift to finding a resolution that respects all parties involved.
As the situation unfolds, Napoli is set to compete against Hellas Verona this Sunday and will subsequently face Atalanta next week. Currently, Napoli sits comfortably at the top of the Serie A standings with 44 points, maintaining a three-point advantage over second-placed Atalanta. As the days progress, the potential finalization of Kvaratskhelia’s transfer to PSG looms closer, while Napoli will be keenly observing the ramifications of this development on their squad dynamics. The outcome of this situation could reshape both the clubs’ strategies moving forward, and it remains to be seen how the transfer saga will conclude.
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