Kvaratskhelia wants to leave Napoli: 'A major disappointment'

The 23-year-old Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has been linked to a potential move to Paris Saint-Germain, with the French club reportedly seeing him as a perfect addition to their squad.

This speculation has now gained significant traction after Napoli’s head coach Antonio Conte revealed that the player has officially requested a transfer. Speaking at a press conference, Conte admitted his disappointment over the situation, stating that he had tried to convince Kvaratskhelia to stay but ultimately respected the player’s desire to move on. According to Conte, Kvaratskhelia wants to start a new chapter in his career, leaving the club and his agent to find a suitable resolution. Conte expressed regret, acknowledging that it is difficult to keep a player who no longer wishes to remain with the team.

Kvaratskhelia’s departure would mark a significant loss for Napoli, where he has become one of the team’s most important players. Known for his incredible pace, creativity, and ability to break down defenses, Kvaratskhelia has been a standout performer since joining the club. His contributions were instrumental in Napoli’s successful Serie A title campaign, and his departure will undoubtedly leave a void that the club must work hard to fill. With his contract running until mid-2027, Napoli finds itself in a strong negotiating position. Reports indicate that the club will demand a substantial transfer fee, potentially exceeding €100 million, for their prized asset. This financial leverage provides Napoli with the ability to extract maximum value from any deal.

Paris Saint-Germain, long admirers of Kvaratskhelia’s talent, appear to be the front-runners for his signature. The French club is keen to strengthen its attacking lineup, especially in the wake of Lionel Messi’s departure and uncertainties surrounding Neymar’s future. Kvaratskhelia’s versatility and attacking prowess make him an attractive prospect for PSG, who are reportedly exploring creative ways to structure a deal. Italian media has suggested that PSG might include players as part of a player-plus-cash transaction to offset Napoli’s high demands. Marco Asensio and Milan Škriniar are two names frequently mentioned in this context. Asensio, with his technical skill and experience, could bring depth to Napoli’s attack, while Škriniar, a commanding central defender, could address defensive needs.

The potential transfer has sparked discussions not only about Kvaratskhelia’s future but also about Napoli’s ability to adapt to life without him. The club has a history of losing top players, such as Edinson Cavani, Gonzalo Higuaín, and Kalidou Koulibaly, but has consistently managed to rebuild and remain competitive. Antonio Conte and Napoli’s management will need to carefully reinvest any funds from Kvaratskhelia’s sale to ensure the team remains strong. The loss of such a key player poses a challenge, but it also presents an opportunity to bring in new talent and reshape the squad for the future.

The situation has also reignited debates about PSG’s ambitions and their continued pursuit of world-class talent. The club’s ability to attract players like Kvaratskhelia underscores their financial power and determination to remain at the forefront of European football. For PSG, adding the Georgian winger would not only enhance their squad but also send a clear message about their intent to dominate both domestically and in the Champions League.

As negotiations progress, the football world is closely following every development. The outcome of this saga will not only determine the future of one of Europe’s brightest young talents but also influence the trajectories of both Napoli and PSG. Kvaratskhelia’s decision to leave marks a turning point in his career, and whether he stays in Italy or moves to Paris, his next steps will shape the ambitions and fortunes of the club he represents. This transfer could become one of the most significant moves of the season, with lasting implications for all parties involved.