Khvicha Kvaratskhelia transfer latest as Antonio Conte sends Liverpool clear message

Antonio Conte has ruled out a transfer for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, despite the Napoli star seemingly wanting a move away this summer.

Kvaratskhelia starred on the final night of the group stages at Euro 2024 as Georgia shocked Portugal to book its place in the knockout stages. The forward scored the opening goal just two minutes into the 2-0 win as his nation secured its passage in its first outing at the tournament.

There no doubt will have been plenty of interested clubs watching on to see Kvaratskhelia in action, including Liverpool. According to TBR Football, Liverpool has 'asked' about the 23-year-old, with Arne Slot seemingly keen on signing a new winger.

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His agent and father have both declared his desire to secure a move this summer, although those comments were met with short shrift by Napoli. Now, the Italian club’s new manager has dismissed suggestions Kvaratskhelia could depart in the coming weeks.

“Last year's frustration led to unclear situations,” Conte said in a press conference (via football.london). “But the players know that difficulties can happen, we must roll up our sleeves all together with respect and trust.

"I knew the situations of all the players very well, I vetoed Kvara, Di Lorenzo, Lobotka, Anguissa.”

Conte later added: "There are no doubts. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia stays here and he will play for Napoli. There are no doubts, it’s all clear. Kvara will stay here with us."

For the time being, Kvaratskhelia will be staying put in Germany as he prepares for Georgia’s first knockout game at a major tournament. They will take on Spain in the last-16 on Sunday, with their star player having to wait a little while longer to make a decision on his future.

Liverpool.com says: Napoli certainly isn’t in the mood to even entertain the idea of a move for Kvaratskhelia, so he’s probably going to find it difficult to force one through. With his contract running until 2027, the Italian club is in a strong position to play hardball.

As for Liverpool, while Kvaratskhelia is a star, he’s perhaps not what the Reds need, considering he plays mostly off the left. It has been great watching him and Georgia at the Euros though, and they fully deserve their place in the last-16.