Markus Babbel Names “Clever” Serie A Star Who Would Be a Fantastic Signing for Liverpool
Markus Babbel believes that Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia would be a fantastic addition to Liverpool.
Former Liverpool defender Markus Babbel believes that the Reds might need to spend significantly to acquire Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia this summer.
Jurgen Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool concluded last season, with the team winning the Carabao Cup and securing a third-place finish in the Premier League. Arne Slot has succeeded Klopp as the manager, ushering in a period of transition for the club.
Slot is looking to bolster various parts of his squad as he prepares for his first season in English football. Adding a winger appears to be a priority, as Liverpool have shown interest in Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon.
Although the Reds have quality wingers, ongoing speculation about the futures of Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz has led the Dutch coach to seek a new wide player.
Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has gained widespread recognition and is reportedly attracting interest from Liverpool.
The talented winger impressed during Georgia’s run in the 2024 European Championships, contributing to their advancement to the Round of 16, although they were later eliminated by Spain.
Markus Babbel believes Kvaratskhelia, 23, would greatly benefit Liverpool, his former club, but anticipates that acquiring the Napoli winger could require a substantial £150 million investment.
“Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is a top and talented player and if he had the chance to come to Liverpool it would be fantastic, especially because of the way Liverpool like to play,” Babbel commented on bet365’s Euro 2024 coverage (h/t The Liverpool ECHO).
“I think it would be brilliant for him. He’s a clever player, he wants to have the ball. He can hit teams on the transition and I think this is the style of play that Liverpool want to do.
“He would be fantastic in the Premier League because he is only 23, but I don’t think that Napoli’s president will make things easy. If he is to leave it might cost £150 million, even for PSG and Liverpool this could be too much.”
Kvaratskhelia has made a significant impact at Napoli since his arrival in July 2022. He impressed during Napoli’s successful 2021/22 Champions League campaign under Luciano Spalletti.
Despite inconsistent performances in the following season, he still managed to contribute 11 goals and eight assists in 34 Serie A appearances.
Following his standout performances for Georgia in the 2024 Euro, Kvaratskhelia, who has spent two seasons in Italy, is eager to join the Premier League, with Liverpool showing interest. However, a move to Anfield could be challenging given his contract with Napoli running until 2027 (Transfermarkt).
Babbel’s assessment of Kvaratskhelia is accurate. While his talent and potential are evident from his performances for Napoli and Georgia, it may not be prudent for our club to make a substantial financial commitment to a single player during a transitional phase under Arne Slot.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Predicted Starting XI as Arne Slot Formation Stance Emerged
