Why Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is the best signing of the transfer window?

On January 17th, Paris Saint-Germain officially signed Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli, a move valued at €70 million. Which is undoubtedly the best transfer of the window, as the winger could become a player that defines Paris' next era of success.

A transfer that shook Napoli

In his two-and-a-half-year spell in Italy, the Georgian international winger became one of the best wingers in the world, bringing a scudetto to the Armando Maradona Stadium after 33 years of drought, and claim the player of the season award.

Despite all his success at the club, Napoli made the painful decision to sell the player. This was due to contract renewal disagreements, with the player seeking a much larger salary than the club was willing to offer.

" We thank him for what he did here and gave to the city", said Napoli director Giovanni Manna in a press conference (via OneFootball.com).

"We tried to solve this difficult situation many times, but we were forced to sell him in this session because we were almost blackmailed. We had to, but not to compensate for our summer moves. He had been talking with PSG since May. At first, we didn't want to lose him to prove our strength. We did our best, but we couldn't reach an agreement and completed the deal early to have time [to find a replacement]."

Kvaratskhelia's number speak for themselves

Throughout his last six months at the club, “Kvaradona” contributed to five goals and three assists in 19 games, proving to be a valuable player for Antonio Conte's team. Beyond goals and assists, Kvaratskhelia excels in progressive carries (5.74 per 90) and successful take-ons (2.41 per 90), according to FBref.com, showcasing his ability to break down defenses and create chances for himself or his teammates.

For context, Bukayo Saka averages 4.95 progressive carries and 1.84 successful take-ons per 90, while Vinicius Junior records 6.76 progressive carries and 3.12 successful take-ons per 90, which puts Kvaratskhelia among the best dribblers in Europe.

A perfect fit for Luis Enrique’s system

The 23-year-old played four games for his new team, already providing one assist for Dembélé and scoring his first goal against Monaco. With more time, he will fit perfectly into Luis Enrique's system as his association with Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola is almost certain to bear fruit for the club, whether it is in Ligue 1 or in the Champions League in the foreseeable future.

Ahead of his debut for the club, Luis Enrique was quoted by Reuters saying:

"When we recruit a player, it's because we believe he can help the team improve. What's important is that he's with us and he sees what we ask of the team's players. We've analysed his characteristics, which are compatible with our game.

"To score from distance, you need the shots of Kvaratskhelia, Marco Asensio, or Vitinha. All the players' abilities are welcome. We know him well; we already wanted him last season."

Furthermore, his ability to operate on both wings and as a false nine is a real plus for the French champion, as Luis Enrique greatly values players able to play in different positions. He will need more time to adapt to his new teammates, however, has already shown flashes of his elite vision and explosive dribbling.

Though his attacking prowess will certainly catch the eyes of many observers, it is also his attitude when losing the ball that makes him the best signing for Paris and a great fit in Enrique's football philosophy. According to FBref.com the Georgian is also one of the best wingers in tackles per game (1.39 per 90).

With his blend of attacking flair, defensive work rate, and tactical flexibility, Kvaratskhelia isn't just PSG's best signing, he's the most impactful transfer of the entire window. If the Georgian continues on this trajectory, he could soon be recognised as one of the best wingers in the world for years to come.