Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has officially requested to leave the club, Napoli head coach Antonio Conte revealed during a press conference on Saturday.
The announcement has sparked rumors of a potential move to French champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), with reports suggesting the transfer could be finalized for a fee of 80 million euros ($82 million).
Speaking to reporters ahead of Napoli’s home game against Verona, Conte expressed his disappointment over Kvaratskhelia’s decision. The Georgian forward, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic Serie A title win in 2023, seems determined to leave southern Italy’s football giants.
“Kvara has asked the club to be sold… I spoke to the player and he confirmed his decision. I’m very disappointed,” Conte stated. He explained that efforts to keep Kvaratskhelia at the heart of Napoli’s project had fallen short.
Despite his frustration, Conte acknowledged the situation, saying, “I can’t keep chained up a player who doesn’t want to stay.” He added that the issue now lies between the player, his representatives, and the club’s management.
Kvaratskhelia’s rise to fame came after joining Napoli in 2022, forming a lethal partnership with Victor Osimhen. Together, they led Napoli to their first league title in 33 years, a feat that marked a high point for the club.
However, challenges arose soon after, including managerial changes and a disappointing 10th-place finish last season.