Liverpool have submitted a contract offer to 17-year-old midfielder Andria Bartishvili, attempting to secure his signature ahead of Arsenal, according to reports from Geo Team cited by Liverpool site DaveOCKOP. The Georgian teenager currently plays on loan at Iberia from Kolkheti Poti, and has attracted attention from Premier League clubs after impressing in Champions League qualifying.
Bartishvili is a versatile, two-footed central attacking midfielder capable of playing on either wing. He is considered one of Georgia’s most promising talents, drawing comparisons to Paris Saint-Germain’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Scouts from both Liverpool and Arsenal recently observed Bartishvili in action during Iberia’s 3-2 victory over FC Flora in the first round of Champions League qualifying.
The report indicates that both clubs have presented identical contract offers to Bartishvili and his family, leaving the final decision with the player. This isn't the first time Bartishvili has been linked with a move to a major European league, with Paris FC also reportedly working on a deal to sign him. Paris FC are attempting to entice Bartishvili with the promise of immediate first-team opportunities.
Liverpool have been proactive in strengthening their youth ranks in recent years, notably securing winger Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea in the summer of 2024, who has already made an impact on the first team. They also agreed a deal to sign centre-back Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna in January, and recently added Scotland U16 captain Dara Jikiemi from Celtic. These signings demonstrate a clear strategy from owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) to invest in promising young players.
Bartishvili’s decision will likely hinge on where he believes he will receive the best development opportunities. While the allure of the Premier League is strong, Paris FC's offer of regular first-team football could prove decisive. Liverpool are also pursuing senior targets, including PSG winger Bradley Barcola, alongside their interest in emerging talents like Bartishvili.
