Newcastle United and Real Madrid have both been linked with signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli this summer, but it looks like Los Blancos might have an advantage.
Kvaratskhelia first emerged as a Newcastle target last year, with the Times claiming that PIF were keen to bring the winger to St James’ Park either in January or the summer.
A winter move did not come to fruition, but the rumours surrounding the 22-year-old have refused to go away. It has since been claimed that Eddie Howe is a big fan of Kvaratskhelia, and believes he would be an ideal fit for his 4-3-3 system at Newcastle.
Howe isn’t wrong, and Kvaratskhelia would be a dream signing for a lot of Toon fans. He is enjoying a remarkable season in Italy, and is propelling Napoli to the Serie A title, while they are also flying in Europe. He’s got 27 goal contributions from 27 appearances in all competitions to far this season. In the words of Jamie Carragher, he is the ‘most exciting player in Europe‘.
That is why Newcastle want to sign him, but so do Real Madrid.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia given Real Madrid message
Competing with Real Madrid in the transfer market is always incredibly difficult, as they are arguably the biggest club in the world.
But this transfer tussle is even trickier after recent comments from the Georgian’s agent. He stated that Kvaratskhelia is a fan of Real Madrid, which surely increases their chances of signing him.
The youngster has since stated that former Real Madrid midfielder Guti was his idol growing up, and that he wrote his number 14 on a plain white shirt when he was a kid.
Now the Spaniard has delivered a message to Kvaratskhelia.
Speaking on El Chiringuito TV, Guti said: “I’m Kvaratskhelia’s idol? Kvara, come to Real Madrid. I will send you a shirt.”
Odds are stacked against Newcastle
It is looking more and more like Kvaratkshelia is Real Madrid’s to lose. If they seriously want him and put enough money on the table then there is surely no way he can say no.
He was a fan growing up, and now his idol has asked him to make the move. I mean, what chance have we got now?!
If only someone like Fabrice Pancrate or Andy Griffin was his idol…
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
