The real reason Newcastle United did not sign Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as PIF mistake comes to light

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Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is one that got away for Newcastle United.

The Magpies have signed some world class superstars since PIF bought the club.

Alexander Isak is Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever, and he is now considered to be one of the best strikers in all of Europe. Elsewhere, Newcastle convinced Sandro Tonali to join them, and he has become the key cog in Eddie Howe’s midfield.

But not every superstar that Newcastle United have targeted has arrived at St James’ Park.

Newcastle wanted to sign Kvaratskhelia in 2023. At the time, he was emerging as one of Europe’s most dazzling talents at Napoli. The Georgia international became a target for PIF, but a move to St James’ Park was not forthcoming.

Why Newcastle United opted not to sign Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Now with Paris Saint-Germain following a £60million transfer in January, details have emerged surrounding the Magpies’ interest in Kvaratskhelia.

According to the Telegraph, Newcastle United decided that signing Kvaratskhelia would be ‘too expensive and risky’ after being recommended the winger.

Fast forward to 2025 and PIF must severely regret not bringing the 24-year-old to Tyneside.

Shortly after Newcastle were linked with Kvaratskhelia, the Magpies signed a different winger. Anthony Gordon arrived from Everton, and he has proven to be a spectacular addition.

Newcastle United hope they have the next Kvaratskhelia

While Newcastle missed out on the chance to sign Kvaratskhelia, they will hope that they are about to sign Georgian football’s next big superstar.

Newcastle will sign Vakhtang Salia from Dinamo Tbilisi in August when he turns 18-years-old.

There is real excitement inside St James’ Park surrounding his looming arrival, with Paul Mitchell pushing to sign Salia.

Newcastle plan to loan Salia out, with the view to him eventually blossoming into a first-team star on Tyneside.

The 17-year-old has played for Georgia Under-21s, but is yet to make his full international debut. He will aim to follow in the footsteps of Kvaratskhelia, while Toon officials will hope he turns out to be just as good.