Manchester United set to battle Liverpool for Serie A forward - Reports

According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United are set to battle Liverpool in the race to sign Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli in the ongoing January transfer window. This comes after the Red Devils have been poor in attack this season. Thus, their interest lies in signing a new attacker.

Kvaratskhelia has been efficient in attack since joining Napoli from Dinamo Batumi for a reported €13.30 million in July 2022. In the 2024-25 season, he has scored five goals and registered three assists in 19 games for Napoli.

The Red Devils could be looking to sign Kvaratskhelia as Marcus Rashford's potential replacement. This is based on the idea that Rashford's future at Old Trafford is uncertain, given his alleged broken relationship with Ruben Amorim.

Kvaratskhelia’s attacking proficiency and creativity in attack could enhance United's attacking prowess if signed. Meanwhile, Liverpool could look at Kvaratskhelia as a long-term replacement for Luis Diaz.

This is based on the idea that Diaz is on the radar of several European clubs. In the event that Diaz decides to leave Anfield, Kvaratskhelia could be his replacement.

Kvaratskhelia’s contract at Napoli expires in June 2027. However, TEAMtalk claims that a January move for the Georgian forward is unlikely as Napoli are looking to offer him a new deal. If an agreement regarding a new contract is not reached, Kvaratskhelia is reportedly open to leaving Napoli in the summer.

"The players are anxious and sometimes afraid" - Manchester United's head coach Ruben Amorim

Manchester United FC v Newcastle United FC - Premier League - Source: Getty

The Red Devils head coach has claimed that some of his players are anxious and afraid on the pitch. This comes after his squad has been inconsistent across several competitions this season.

In a press conference ahead of the Premier League clash against Liverpool on January 5, Amorim said (via Fabrizio Romano):

"The players are anxious and sometimes afraid on the pitch. We have to cope with that."

He added:

"We need the leaders to step up to help the other guys - and I’m the most responsible person here to improve the performances, I am on it."

Manchester United have been defeated in four out of their last five games across all competitions. In the Premier League, they are ranked 14th, having registered 22 points from 19 games.

The Red Devils will look to bounce back when they take on Liverpool in the Premier League today.