Man United were on a scouting mission to watch 22-year-old winger who has been described as the next George Best

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Manchester United are among a number of Premier League sides who were on a scouting mission for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, according to reports.

Erik ten Hag’s side may well be beginning to examine the transfer market ahead of next summer with potential moves already being worked on.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos are set to complete their 25 per cent acquisition of the club potentially this week and from there, they can get to work.

However, a month will be needed before the 71-year-old can get involved with decisions due to him needing to pass the Premier League’s Owner’s and Director’s test.

The winger, who was once compared to George Best, could be the first big transfer under Ineos’ ownership.

United’s scouting mission

According to a report from 90min, United, alongside Newcastle United, Chelsea and Manchester City, have made a scouting trip to watch Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

The four Premier League sides watched on as Georgia played out their final Euro 2024 qualifier against Spain, and there were a number of players they liked who were involved in the game, but the Georgian winger was the man who attracted the most attention.

With three goals and four assists for Napoli, despite the managerial struggles they have endured this season, it is good going for the winger.

Despite United’s interest, the 22-year-old is currently in talks over extending his contract at Napoli by another 12 months while also being handed a significant pay rise – his current deal runs to 2027.

Best comparison

Former Italian striker Christian Vieri made the comparison earlier this year. He was quoted by Calcio Napoli: “The goal from Kvaratskhelia is worthy of Maradona. The goal he scored is crazy stuff!

“If he goes to Manchester United, George Best’s times come back, Kvaratskhelia is the same.”

Osimhen more likely

The Italian side would not countenance a sale of two of their best players in the same summer, Victor Osimhen looks to be the forward who is more likely to leave at this moment in time, according to the report.

Whether United would be able to get involved for either Osimhen or Kvaratskhelia remains to be seen, but the Red Devils are certainly interested in the Georgian winger.

Kvaratskelia, however, is yet another left-hand-sided attacker so it is surely unlikely with Marcus Rashford playing there that another big-money left-winger would be signed.