Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: The Elite Signing Liverpool Shouldn’t Miss

Liverpool’s potential pursuit of Napoli’s Georgian sensation, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, has sparked excitement and debate among fans and pundits. This discussion gained momentum during the recent episode of Transfer Market Metrics, where Dave Davis and Phil Barter dissected the stats, attributes, and fit of Kvaratskhelia in Liverpool’s system under manager Arne Slot.

Kvaratskhelia’s Unmatched Potential

“Let’s not forget the night he destroyed us in Naples,” Phil Barter reminded listeners. He referred to the match where Kvaratskhelia played a pivotal role in Napoli’s dominant performance, leaving Liverpool fans and analysts in awe of his capabilities. Aged 23, Kvaratskhelia is at the “perfect age for a big move,” fitting Liverpool’s recent recruitment profile.

Kvaratskhelia’s numbers underline his status as an elite talent. Phil Barter detailed: “This season, he’s averaged 5.6 touches per game in the opposition box, making him one of the most dangerous players in advanced areas.” Furthermore, his progressive carries and take-on success rate of 85% mark him as a player who thrives in creating opportunities, similar to Liverpool’s Luis Díaz.

Profiling Kvaratskhelia for Liverpool

Barter emphasised that Kvaratskhelia is not just a creator but also a potent finisher. His non-penalty goals rank in the 67th percentile, while his shot volume hits a remarkable 99th percentile. “He’s taking almost four shots a game – Darwin pre-Liverpool levels,” Barter noted, stressing the impact Kvaratskhelia could have on Liverpool’s front line.

Dave Davis added context about Napoli’s tactical setup under their current manager, pointing out that Kvaratskhelia operates in a system where defensive work isn’t prioritised for wingers. “That’s something he’d need to adapt at Liverpool, given our left-side triangles and pressing structure,” Davis said. Yet, both Davis and Barter agreed that Kvaratskhelia has shown adaptability under previous managers.

Comparing to Current Reds

While Díaz and Cody Gakpo offer versatility and defensive work rate, Kvaratskhelia provides the kind of offensive output Liverpool sometimes lack. “What this guy has is potentially the output that Díaz is inconsistent about,” Barter explained, referencing Díaz’s tendency to go through dry patches. Similarly, while Gakpo excels in linking play, Kvaratskhelia’s ability to “get at a fullback and take a shot” could offer Liverpool a directness that’s been missing.

Barter’s comparison highlighted Kvaratskhelia’s ability to blend the strengths of both Díaz and Gakpo, making him an ideal candidate for Liverpool’s dynamic attacking style under Slot.

Transfer Prospects and Final Thoughts

As reported by Le Parisien, Napoli and PSG are engaged in discussions for Kvaratskhelia, with a potential fee of €60-65 million. However, Barter urged Liverpool’s decision-makers to act quickly: “If Richard and Michael are listening, please make a move. This guy profiles perfectly for us.”

Kvaratskhelia is a proven winner, having been instrumental in Napoli’s Serie A title win last season. His elite dribbling, combined with his knack for finding dangerous positions, makes him a player capable of elevating Liverpool’s attack to new heights. As Barter summarised, “It would be a phenomenal signing.”