In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the soccer world, Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of Napoli’s electrifying winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Ligue 1 champions have splashed out a whopping €70 million to secure the services of the 23-year-old Georgian international, who lit up Serie A last season as he helped propel Napoli to their first Scudetto in 33 years.
Kvaratskhelia, affectionately known as “Kvaradona” by the Napoli faithful, had been one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe, with the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, and Barcelona all reportedly interested in his signature. However, it is PSG who have won the race for his coveted signature, making him their first major signing of the January transfer window.
A Star is Born in Naples
Kvaratskhelia burst onto the scene last season after joining Napoli from Georgian side Dinamo Batumi for a modest €13.3 million. The fleet-footed winger wasted no time in making his mark, dazzling fans and opponents alike with his lightning pace, mesmerizing dribbling skills, and eye for goal.
In his debut campaign, Kvaratskhelia racked up an impressive 12 goals and 13 assists in 34 Serie A appearances, playing a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic title triumph. His performances saw him voted Serie A’s most valuable player for the 2022-23 season, cementing his status as one of the brightest young stars in world soccer.
Key Stats from Kvaratskhelia’s Breakout Season
- 12 goals in Serie A (joint-8th in the league)
- 13 assists in Serie A (2nd in the league)
- 34 appearances (31 starts)
- Named Serie A MVP for 2022-23
A New Challenge in Paris
Kvaratskhelia’s arrival in the French capital is a major coup for PSG and new manager Luis Enrique, who is looking to reshape the squad as he aims to deliver the club’s first ever Champions League title. The Georgian winger will add even more firepower to an already star-studded attacking lineup featuring the likes of Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, and Lionel Messi.
While the exact details of Kvaratskhelia’s contract have not been disclosed, sources close to the deal have indicated that he has put pen to paper on a long-term deal that will keep him at the Parc des Princes until at least June 2029. The transfer fee of €60 million, with a further €10 million in potential add-ons, makes him one of the most expensive signings in PSG’s history.
Khvicha is an exceptional talent who has already shown that he has what it takes to perform at the very highest level. We are thrilled to welcome him to Paris Saint-Germain and can’t wait to see him light up Ligue 1 and the Champions League in our colors.
Luis Campos, PSG Sporting Director
A Bitter Blow for Napoli
While PSG celebrate their new signing, the mood in Naples will be decidedly more somber. Kvaratskhelia had quickly become a fan favorite at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, with his dazzling performances and infectious enthusiasm endearing him to the passionate Napoli support.
Manager Antonio Conte had made no secret of his desire to keep hold of the winger, but revealed that the player had requested the transfer after PSG’s interest became known. The Italian tactician expressed his disappointment at losing such a key player midway through the season, but wished Kvaratskhelia well for the future.
Khvicha is a fantastic player and an even better person. We are sorry to see him go, but we respect his decision and wish him all the best for his new adventure in Paris. Napoli’s loss is certainly PSG’s gain.
Antonio Conte, Napoli Head Coach
The Road Ahead
With the ink barely dry on his new contract, Kvaratskhelia will now turn his attention to settling into his new surroundings in Paris and getting up to speed with Luis Enrique’s tactical setup. PSG fans will be hoping to catch their first glimpse of the Georgian in action when the club takes on Lens on Saturday.
For Napoli, the focus will now shift to finding a suitable replacement for their departed star. With the January transfer window in full swing, sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli will be working around the clock to identify potential targets who can help fill the sizeable void left by Kvaratskhelia’s departure.
One thing is for certain: the soccer world will be watching with bated breath to see how this blockbuster move pans out. Can Kvaratskhelia take his game to even greater heights in the City of Light? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – the stage is set for a new chapter in the young winger’s already remarkable career.
