‘Why not?’ - Former Sunderland star makes Newcastle United transfer claim

Former West Ham United and Sunderland star Don Hutchison believes reported Newcastle United target Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is worth the £88million asking price - but believes the Georgian winger will remain with Serie A champions Napoli.

The 22-year-old has become one of the most feared wingers in European football after enjoying a remarkable first season in Italy following his £9.8million move from Dinamo Butami last summer. Kvaratskhelia marked his Napoli debut with a goal and an assist on his Serie A debut in a 5-2 win at Verona and he went on to score 12 goals and provide 13 assists as his side landed their first Scudetto since their Diego Maradona-inspired title win in 1990.

The Georgian also impressed in the Champions League as his six goal contributions in nine appearances included goals in home and away meetings with Dutch giants Ajax and assists against the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt and Liverpool. His performance against the latter led to praise from Reds manager Jurgen Klopp as he said: “He (Kvaratskhelia) is really good, the boy, and really quick and you have to defend him together in these moments. When he has the advantage of the first movement, then he is already gone.”

Several clubs around Europe are reportedly considering moves for Kvaratskhelia as the likes of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move for his services. Italian outlet Corriere Dello Sport suggested Newcastle were preparing an £82million bid for the winger, despite Eddie Howe’s insistence that the Magpies will have to consider Financial Fair Play regulations as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League this season.

Former Scotland midfielder Hutchison has described Kvaratskhelia as ‘a great player’ but insisted any potential suitor may face disappointment with any bid for the winger.

He told ESPN: “What is it £88 million? (for Kvaratskhelia). Can we get him for that? £88 million? Absolutely (I want him). Why not? He is a great player. I think the owners (of Napoli) put a price-tag on Osimhen, what £180-190m, just to make sure no-one buys him. I think Kvaratskhelia stays another season. Why would you want to move on from being a Serie A champion? Go and win it again.”