Newcastle United have been linked with signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and he is a player who PIF would reportedly love to bring to St James’ Park.
It was the Times who first reported Newcastle’s interest in the Napoli winger. They claimed last week that he is now a top target for the Magpies in 2023, having scouted him and assessed his character.
The Times’ report added that a move in January or next summer could be on the horizon, as Newcastle look to sign the £50million-rated 21-year-old.
A deal might be difficult, however. Napoli’s director has since said that there is no chance that the Georgia international will sign for Newcastle.
But he will if the Magpies’ Saudi owners PIF get their wish.
PIF want Kvaratskhelia
According to Give Me Sport’s Dean Jones, the PIF branch of Newcastle’s ownership are specifically keen on signing Kvaratskhelia next year.
On Newcastle’s interest in the youngster, Jones added: “There are certainly some people within the club that see him as a great fit for what they’re building.
“I’m sure they would love to have him, but this is one of the most coveted players in Europe. To be honest, I don’t think he’ll be leaving yet, so that’s going to be one issue.”
PIF will have to break the bank again
As Jones says, it is incredibly difficult to see Napoli selling Kvaratskhelia so soon after signing him. He only arrived in Naples last summer.
Now he is propelling Luciano Spalletti’s side to a title charge, with Napoli eight points clear at the top of the table already. They now look like serious contenders to win their first Serie A title since 1990.
That is largely down to Kvaratskhelia, who has been a revelation since his move to Italy. In all competitions, he has made 17 appearances and has eight goals and 10 assists. He’s averaging more than one goal or assist every game.
Kvaratskhelia also excelled in the Champions League, helping his side finish top of their group ahead of Liverpool. He impressed against the Reds on both occasions and received praise from Jurgen Klopp, who described him as ‘cheeky‘.
That is a good way to sum up Napoli’s number 77. He shows no fear in attack, and is capable of going either way when running at his opponent. That is what makes him an absolute nightmare to defend against.
And it is why Newcastle want to sign him. Getting him in would be a sensational piece of business by Dan Ashworth, and the fact that PIF are keen on him suggests they are willing to pay big money.
That is what it will take, despite the Times claiming that he is valued at £50million. 90min believe his valuation is more than £100million.
That is more aligned with his form in Naples, meaning PIF will have to put their money where their mouth is to get the player they want.
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