Khvicha Kvaratskhelia joins PSG in €70m transfer

Georgian winger becomes PSG's first player from Georgia.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of SSC Napoli warms up ahead of the Serie A match at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 29, 2024, in Naples, Italy. Photo by Ivan Romano/Getty Images

By Dian Suswono and Mariana Putri

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) announced on Friday the signing of Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Italian league leaders Napoli. The move, reportedly worth €70 million ($72 million) excluding potential bonuses, makes Kvaratskhelia the first Georgian player in PSG’s history.

The 23-year-old winger, who will don the number seven jersey, expressed his excitement in an official interview with PSG's website. "It’s an honor to be able to wear the PSG shirt," he said. "Playing for one of the biggest teams in the world has always been a dream for me. I’m very proud, and together, we’ll fight to fulfill our dreams."

Kvaratskhelia gained international attention during his time at Napoli, where he joined in 2022 from Dinamo Batumi in his home country. His impact was immediate, helping Napoli secure the 2023 Serie A title while being named the league's best player that season.

In 107 appearances across all competitions for Napoli, Kvaratskhelia scored 30 goals and provided 29 assists, establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising talents.

His transfer to PSG marks a significant milestone in his career, and the winger has signed a contract with the French champions until 2029.

The addition of Kvaratskhelia bolsters PSG’s squad as they aim to maintain their dominance in Ligue 1 and make a deeper run in the UEFA Champions League. He is expected to compete for the left-wing position currently occupied by France international Bradley Barcola under coach Luis Enrique.

Kvaratskhelia may make his PSG debut as early as Saturday, when the team faces Lens. However, he will be ineligible to participate in PSG’s remaining Champions League group matches this month against Manchester City and VfB Stuttgart. If PSG advances to the knockout stages, Kvaratskhelia could be registered for the tournament in February.

"The project is what convinced me to come here," Kvaratskhelia explained. "I understand the club’s vision and how it develops players. Many great players have been part of PSG, and it feels right to join this team."

A new chapter for PSG

Kvaratskhelia’s arrival comes at a time of transition for PSG, following the departure of star forward Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid last season. The Georgian winger is seen as a key addition to maintain PSG’s competitive edge both domestically and internationally.

Meanwhile, PSG is navigating player movements within its squad. Reports suggest the club is attempting to finalize a loan deal for France striker Randal Kolo Muani to Juventus, although the transfer has reportedly hit a snag due to PSG’s limit on loaned-out players, capped at six.

PSG faces a critical juncture in their Champions League campaign, currently sitting just outside the qualifying spots for the knockout stage. Their upcoming clash against Manchester City at the Parc des Princes will be a decisive moment.

While Kvaratskhelia will not feature in these matches, his presence is expected to provide fresh energy and creativity as PSG eyes a strong second half of the season.

Kvaratskhelia’s signing represents PSG’s ongoing commitment to acquiring top-tier talent to achieve its ambitious goals. For the Georgian winger, the move to Paris is a chance to shine on one of football’s biggest stages.

PSG fans will be eager to see how Kvaratskhelia fits into the team’s dynamic and contributes to their quest for domestic and European glory. As the Ligue 1 leaders continue their campaign, all eyes will be on their latest star signing and his journey in the French capital.