Barcelona and Real Madrid set to battle it out for Georgian wonderkid

Dinamo Tbilisi sensation Saba Kharebashvili might be the next Georgian to conquer the footballing world as AS are reporting that both Barcelona and Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on the youngster.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has put his country on the football map in recent years with his unbelievable performances in attack for Serie A giants Napoli and Kharebashvili could very well be the next in line to join a European giant.

• Alphonso Davies, FC Bayern München, 2024getty

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Both Barcelona and Madrid are keen to add some more depth to their defence, with the left-back position a priority for the long term.

  The Catalans currently have only one established left-back on their roster in Alejandro Balde.

  Meanwhile, Real Madrid are uncertain about the future of Ferland Mendy and even though they are increasingly likely to secure the signing of Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich on a free transfer in 2025, they feel that the 16-year-old Kharebashvili would be a good addition, too.

  DID YOU KNOW?

  Kharebashvili made his first-team debut at the age of 15. The teenager has already established himself as an important player at Dinamo Tbilisi, making 26 appearances in all competitions since making his debut. He is also touted to be fast tracked into the Georgian national team setup after impressing with his nation at the U17 and U19 levels

• AFP

  WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA AND REAL MADRID?

  The eternal rivals in Spanish football are the top two teams in LaLiga this season, with the title race expected to go down to the wire. Following Barcelona’s 1-0 loss to Real Sociedad on Sunday, Real Madrid are just six points behind the Blaugrana with a game in hand.

  Following the upcoming international break, Real Madrid will travel to Leganes on November 24, while Barca will face a tough away trip to Celta Vigo a day earlier.