'Plan B' to Nico Williams? The 'top' left winger who knocks on the door of FC Barcelona

Published:3/08/2024 - 14:43h

Updated:3/08/2024 - 19:36h

FC Barcelona is clear that the operation for Nico Williams could become more complicated than expected, which is why it has been monitoring other 'top' options in case the negotiation with the Pamplona native fails. Now, at FCBN, we will talk to you about the new stellar alternative that is being considered as a possible reinforcement for the culé left winger

The debate over who will be chosen to reinforce FC Barcelona's left-winger seems to be far from over. Initially, the priority seemed to be the acquisition of Nico Williams from Athletic Club; however, the arrival of the player from Pamplona, although not completely ruled out, has been questioned recently due to a series of reports that cast doubt on this possibility.

Given this situation, it is not surprising that the azulgrana team is considering other outstanding alternatives in its agenda, with the clear objective of giving that great leap in quality to the left flank where there is currently a shortage of assets, counting only with a questioned (and injured) Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres. In addition, the option of deploying Raphinha, a natural right-winger, in that demarcation is also being considered. However, none of these alternatives fully convince either the board or the culé fans.

Given this scenario and the need for a 'top' player who can make a difference from that flank, FC Barcelona is apparently beginning to consider another 'crack' who could prove to be a great addition to the Barcelona squad: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Napoli's left winger, who as suggested in 'El Nacional.cat', has recently been offered to the Catalan team.

The drawbacks that complicate a possible culé offensive for Kvaratskhelia

It should be recalled that recently reports emerged that the Georgian, who has a contract with the Neapolitan team until 2027, would be interested in leaving the team this summer. This is partly due to Napoli's difficult 2023/24 season, which finished 10th in Serie A and failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League 24/25 or any other European competition. This situation would not be favorable for 'Kvaradona' and his entourage, so they would be looking for a way out in this summer market, preferably to a European 'big'.

However, in this operation it is crucial to consider not only the interest of FC Barcelona in adding the player and the alleged desire of Kvaratskhelia to wear the blue and white shirt, but also the exit conditions that Napoli would impose. This squad, presided over by a tough negotiator like Aurelio de Laurentiis, is aware of the value of its star player and will be looking to obtain a significant profit from his sale, which is why it will not let him go at a very low price.

In this context, even if Barça resolves its problems with LaLiga's financial 'fair play' and can operate under the 1/1 rule, it would still have to make an offer for a player whose current market value, according to 'Transfermarkt', is €80M. Therefore, it is possible that the 'partenopeos' are waiting for a proposal ranging between that figure and 100 'kilos', an amount difficult for Barcelona to reach. Now, as for the salary aspect, Kvaratskhelia currently receives 1.2 million euros net per season at Napoli, a low amount for a player of his caliber and that Barcelona might not be so complicated to improve.