Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was determined to join Paris Saint-Germain this winter, reportedly putting immense pressure on Napoli to let him go.
According to La Repubblica, the Georgian winger was ready to invoke Article 17 of FIFA regulations, which allows a player who signed his contract before the age of 28 to terminate it for a reduced compensation, far below his actual market value.
Napoli Had No Choice But to Negotiate
Faced with this legal threat, Napoli had no alternative but to enter negotiations with PSG. Otherwise, Kvaratskhelia could have left for under €10 million, a bargain price for a player of his caliber.
In the end, the transfer was finalized for €70 million, ensuring Napoli received significantly higher compensation than what Article 17 would have allowed.
Napoli Forced to Accept PSG’s Terms
During a press conference, Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna shed light on the transfer and criticized Kvaratskhelia’s camp, even hinting at a form of blackmail—likely referencing this FIFA rule.
“We thank Kvara for what he did at Napoli, but we were forced to sell him in January. I wouldn’t say we were victims of blackmail, but almost.”
A huge coup for PSG, who secured one of Europe’s top talents, while masterfully navigating negotiations to avoid a prolonged legal battle.
