Liverpool manager Arne Slot has the unenviable task of figuring out Mohamed Salah’s dream replacement. Salah has been at the club far longer than the new Dutch boss, and the delicate topic of who will step into the Anfield legend’s shoes when he finally leaves the Reds has rampaged on this summer.
The Egyptian star’s contract runs out in 2025, and there has been no movement on a new deal as yet. While it seems unlikely that the forward would leave the club he is so adored by on a free transfer, plans need to be put in place for the possibility that does happen.
Assuming that the hefty fee Saudi Pro League clubs are willing to pay for Salah isn’t received, the club will need to make some sales to fund a move for a top-tier forward. And Napoli’s £100million-rated Khvicha Kvaratskhelia certainly fits the bill.
King Kvaratskhelia?
In an ideal world, Georgian wizard Kvaratskhelia, who shone at Euro 2024 this summer – especially against powerhouses Portugal – would seamlessly take over Salah’s role at Liverpool and dominate the wing for years to come. Napoli’s 23-year-old maestro was only signed in 2022 for £10m but has already made a name for himself as one of Serie A’s, and indeed Europe’s, leading wingers.
It was his standout performances for the Italian side during their Scudetto success that earned him plaudits, as Kvaratskhelia notched 10 assists and 12 goals in the league, earning him Serie A Player of the Year. His remarkable form also saw him scoop the Champions League Young Player of the Season award that year. However, Napoli’s fortunes have dipped dramatically, seeing a disappointing descent to 10th place in the league last term. Beyond their on-pitch struggles, they’re grappling with shaky financial foundations and an owner at loggerheads with supporters.
This turmoil forced Kvaratskhelia’s agent to clear the air, telling Corriere dello Sport: “I don’t want people to think that Kvara wants to stay at Napoli. We want to leave, but we are waiting so as not to disturb Khvicha.”
Napoli’s management insists their coveted winger, who is tied to the club for another three years, isn’t going anywhere. Current manager Antonio Conte, formerly of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, doubled down by ruling out the Georgian’s departure in a press conference.
