Napoli are refusing to talk with interested clubs about selling Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Georgian international has been outstanding for the Serie A league leaders this season an, he has been linked with the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, but Romano says any speculation should be taken with a pinch of salt:

“I always see many rumours and many of you asking me about Kvaratskhelia and Man United, Kvaratskhelia and Chelsea, Kvaratskhelia and Real Madrid and many others. But guys at the moment, and trust me it’s not usual to say something like that, Napoli don’t want to open negotiation or to speak to any club or any agent. Napoli are insulating the player…”

“This is why for Kvaratskhelia the interest is normal for many clubs following the player but no one is speaking to Napoli or is negotiating or they don’t even know the price tag. So don’t trust all the stories.”

Kvaratskhelia has been fantastic since making the switch from Dinamo Batumi last summer, having scored 12 goals and provided 15 assists in 26 appearances.

No one would have anticipated the impact that the 22-year-old has had but ex-England boss Fabio Capello had already clocked the player’s talent in pre-season. Back in July, he was already extolling Kvaratshelia’s talent:

“I am curious to see how Napoli do, especially Kvaratskhelia, who in his movements reminds me of an early Mohamed Salah.”

Those remarks seem very prescient now, considering how well both Kvaratshelia and Napoli have done. For the time being, though, it seems the Italian club are not willing to discuss a sale with United or any other team.