Arsenal Chase Georgian Midfield Talent as Liverpool Circle

Arsenal are in negotiations to secure the services of Andria Bartishvili, a 17-year-old Georgian midfielder, though they face stiff competition from Liverpool and Paris FC for his signature.

The Gunners' push for fresh talent comes hot on the heels of a remarkable campaign under Mikel Arteta, which saw the club clinch their first Premier League crown since 2004. Arsenal also reached the Champions League final this season, though fell short on penalties against Paris Saint-Germain.

Sporting director Andrea Berta is actively orchestrating moves in the transfer market, with the club pursuing both established first-team reinforcements and promising young prospects. The strategy encompasses both domestic and international recruitment, as Arsenal look to build sustainable success.

Bartishvili currently finds himself on loan at FC Iberia 1999 through the end of the calendar year. The midfielder remains contracted to FC Kolkheti-1913 Poti, though he cannot formally join an English club until reaching his 18th birthday in March 2027.

Three-Way Battle Intensifies

Reports had suggested a £4.5million agreement was already in place between Bartishvili and Arsenal, but the teenager has moved to dispel such claims. Through a repost on X, Bartishvili clarified his actual situation.

Georgian outlet Geo Team revealed on June 22 that three clubs are actively pursuing the prospect: Arsenal, Liverpool, and Paris FC. The two English sides have tabled identical offers, whilst the French club are attempting to differentiate their approach by dangling the prospect of guaranteed first-team opportunities from day one.

According to Geo Team's reporting, Bartishvili and his representatives intend to reach a final decision following the upcoming European qualification matches, which he will contest with FC Iberia 1999.