Former sporting director Rino Foschi revealed that Bologna were once interested in signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia but an issue with passports stopped a possible deal.
Napoli picked up the talented Georgian winger from Dinamo Batumi for only €10m in the summer, a price that immediately looks like a bargain. Kvaratskhelia has been one of the stars of the show in the Campania capital this season, directly contributing to 24 goals across 22 appearances this season.
Speaking to Radio Punto Nuovo, Foschi revealed that Kvaratskhelia was wanted by Bologna before bureaucratic issues put a stop to things.
“We knew him a little, although many now say they already knew him… Two years ago, I spoke about him for the first time with Bigon, who was following him at Bologna, but there was a problem with passports.
“Now Napoli enjoy him, just as they enjoy Osimhen. And Giuntoli is to be congratulated for his work. Napoli has no debt because the whole club worked well, even when things became difficult for everyone.
“Football in Italy is suffering, but De Laurentiis is right to defend the high price of his players. Then we all know that there are many big players in Italy who are struggling, but we will see.
“I wonder, though, what season will this be if more ad hoc operations are discovered to adjust the balance sheet? Operations among other things all to be verified.”
The former sporting director, who worked for clubs including Palermo, Cesena and Genoa, then gave his thoughts on Napoli’s chances in the Champions League this season.
“They can reach the final and do very well, they have everything and has already proven it at any level. The league no longer gives any stress.”
Kvaratskhelia has quickly become one of the brightest stars in Europe and many top clubs are now keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old, who is contracted to Napoli until June 2027.