Liverpool transfers: Reds and Barcelona in frame for €120m-rated Kvaratskhelia

Liverpool and Barcelona are interested in signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia this summer amid uncertainty over his Napoli future, according to sources in the winger’s native Georgia. 

The 23-year-old attacker helped Napoli to the Serie A title last season, becoming one of the most in-demand attackers in Europe, but the Scudetto holders successfully managed to fend off interest last summer. 

Their Italian title defence has been poor this season, however as they are currently eighth in the table and have cycled through THREE coaches this term. 

Rudi Garcia was the underwhelming successor to Luciano Spalletti and he was replaced in November by journeyman coach Walter Mazzarri. However, the former Watford coach was then dismissed in February to be succeeded by Francesco Colzano. 

Amid the chaos and the uncertainty though ‘Kvaradona’ has delivered for his side, weighing in with 10 Serie A goals and eight assists to this point. 

His importance to the side has been no less than it was last season but both he and his entourage are determined to secure a new deal befitting his status as a matchwinner. 

'Kvaradona' pushing for better Napoli terms

The Georgia international’s current terms expire in 2027 and he is reported to be on around €1.5 million annually. 

That sum pales in comparison to Napoli’s other big star, Victor Osimhen, who is reported to earn around €10m. 

Georgian sources indicate that Kvaratskhelia wants a new contract and, should none come forth, then he will push to leave the Diego Maradona Stadium this summer. 

"Is Kvaratskhelia's agent talking to [Napoli president Aurelio] De Laurentiis? I think the agent will meet the president next week,” journalist Bacho Tsalugelashvili told 1 Station Radio programme 1 Football Night. 

“However, either the contract renewal will materialise or Kvara will go to a top club. I don't know if it is Barcelona or another team." 

New-look Liverpool facing attacking shake-up

It is unlikely that Barca could afford the reported €100m to €120m sum required to sign the forward without significant outgoings, leading to speculation that teams in England could come into the running for his signature. 

"Could it be a Premier League club? I don't know. Liverpool is also interested in Kvaratskhelia, even if Barcelona 's interest is more concrete,” Tsalugelashvili said. “There are management sources who confirm the Blaugrana’s desire.”

Liverpool could be facing an attacking shake-up this summer with Mohamed Salah linked with Al-Ittihad and the club also facing a decision on £75m-rated Luis Diaz. 

PSG have been linked with the Colombia international as a replacement for Kylian Mbappe.