Arsenal intensify pursuit of Georgian prodigy Bartishvili

Arsenal are accelerating their efforts to secure the signature of highly-rated Georgian teenager Andria Bartishvili from Kolkheti 1913 this summer, according to reports. The 17-year-old has been tipped as the next Khvicha Kvaratskhelia after breaking into the Georgian top flight.

Who is Andria Bartishvili?

Bartishvili has emerged as Georgia's next rising star following in the footsteps of Napoli winger Kvaratskhelia. The attacking midfielder has drawn comparisons for his dribbling, creativity, and eye for goal. He has already featured for Kolkheti 1913's first team in the Erovnuli Liga, Georgia's premier division.

Arsenal's recruitment team have been monitoring his progress closely, with the club now ready to step up negotiations. The north London side have a strong track record of developing young talent under Mikel Arteta, with the likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe breaking through.

Why Arsenal want him

Arteta has prioritised adding young, versatile attackers who can operate across the frontline. Bartishvili fits the profile of a player who can play as an attacking midfielder, winger or second striker his technical ability and vision are considered exceptional for his age.

The Georgian's potential market value is likely to be modest given his current club and contract situation, making this a low-risk, high-reward investment. Arsenal have successfully executed similar deals for prospects like Marquinhos and Charlie Patino.

Comparisons to Kvaratskhelia

The 'next Kvaratskhelia' tag carries weight, given the Napoli star's explosive impact in Serie A and on the European stage. Bartishvili shares the same nationality and positional flexibility, but it remains early in his development. Arsenal's recruitment team will be cautious not to overhype the teenager but clearly see a path to first-team football.

Should the transfer materialise, Bartishvili would likely join Arsenal's academy or under-23 set-up initially, with a view to bridging the gap to the senior squad.

Transfer context

The Gunners are operating in a competitive market, with several European clubs also tracking Georgia's emerging talents. Bartishvili's move would represent another step in Arsenal's global scouting network, which has recently targeted South America and Asia.

  • Bartishvili is under contract until 2026 with Kolkheti 1913
  • No fee has been disclosed but expected to be below £5 million
  • Work permit requirements may affect timeline, though Georgia's improving FIFA ranking helps

What comes next

Arsenal will likely formalise their interest with a bid in the coming weeks. Sporting director Edu and his team are expected to open discussions with the Georgian club's hierarchy. The player's camp is reportedly keen on a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal's youth development record a key factor.

Bartishvili will hope to emulate Kvaratskhelia's rapid rise, but first he must earn a place in Arsenal's competitive squad. For now, the Gunners have laid the groundwork for what could be a smart long-term investment.

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