One of Newcastle United’s targets from the January window put on a Champions League masterclass on Wednesday evening.
Before the window had even opened up, Eddie Howe warned January would be quiet, and that’s exactly how it panned out.
The only business done by Newcastle and Paul Mitchell was outgoings. Miguel Almiron rejoined Atlanta United, while Lloyd Kelly joined Juventus on loan. The duo will bring in a combined fee of around £30m.
Newcastle were linked with several wingers, though, with the club identifying it as a priority position for 2025. Despite Almiron leaving, Newcastle opted not to spend last month.
Newcastle’s patient approach should set up an exciting summer window, but one of their top winger targets is now off the market.
Newcastle reignited interest in Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Newcastle’s interest in Khvicha Kvaratskhelia dates back to 2023 when the Georgian star was sparkling at Napoli.
Newcastle sent scouts to watch Kvaratskhelia in action but a staggering £87m price tag put the Magpies off of a potential deal.
Kvaratskhelia has been hailed as a “phenomenal” talent, and his huge success in Italy attracted plenty of suitors.
With the 24-year-old looking to leave Napoli last month, Newcastle reignited interest in Kvaratskhelia but there was also interest from Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
In the middle of January, Kvaratskhelia made the move to PSG for a £59m fee, and he has hit the ground running at his new club.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia drops Champions League masterclass at PSG
Since moving to France, Kvaratskhelia has featured in every game with PSG, and he started at right wing in their latest Champions League knockout match against Brest.
PSG dominated with a 7-0 victory at Parc des Princes, and Kvaratskhelia showed Newcastle exactly what they have missed out on.
He scored one goal and registered one assist, and his creativity was off the charts with three key passes complete, one big chance created and six successful dribbles.
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Kvaratskhelia earned a spot in WhoScored’s Champions League team of the week with a flawless 10/10 rating.
The only other 10/10 rating went to Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe after his hat-trick against Manchester City.
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