Pundit offers to go to extreme lengths if Newcastle seal £82m deal

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Such is Newcastle United’s standing in European football these days, they are linked with moves for some of the top players around.

Now, clearly, this summer has been frustrating and some of the targets touted look simply out of reach for the club right now.

Still, with Newcastle’s profile having been raised following such a brilliant last season, that does little stop the proverbial rumour mill from churning.

Take Napoli sensation Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, for example.

While the idea of the 22-year-old actually signing for the club has been laughed off by the likes of Don Hutchinson, reports of an £82m bid from St James’ Park has got people talking.

One man in particular has reacted strongly.

A pundit will go to extreme lengths if Newcastle sign Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Indeed, pundit and journalist Paolo Del Genio was speaking on TV program Il Napoli su Telecapri.

During his time on the show, Del Genio said “I’ll chain myself up” if the Serie A champions sell the 22-year-old, who he described as “truly irreplaceable.”

“Last year Spalletti wanted to chain himself up for Koulibaly, some fans would have chained up in the past for other players, I’ve never wanted to chain myself up for anyone, but this time I’ll chain myself up if Kvaratskhelia were to be sold because he’s truly irreplaceable,” he said (via Napolipiu.com).

Del Genio was referencing Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti vowing to chain himself to the club’s gates were they to sell Kalidou Koulibaly, which of course they eventually did to Chelsea.

Del Genio probably doesn’t have to worry

While it’s certainly interesting to see a Newcastle transfer rumour illicit such strong reactions, Del Genio might not have to worry.

BBC Sport suggest Kvaratskhelia is simply out of reach for the Magpies at the moment and the idea of paying close to £100m for a player during a period in which the club are concerned about FFP looks somewhat far-fetched.

Still, it’s good to see Newcastle have people talking…