Maurizio Micheli has a habit of finding extraordinary talent in unconventional places.
Arsenal hired Micheli at the end of last year to work under sporting director Andrea Berta, having built a reputation at Napoli for discovering world-class players from undervalued markets.
His standout signings include Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kim Min-jae and Marek Hamsik.
He is also said to be influential in Arsenal’s pursuit of Christos Tzolis, who could cost around £35million.
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Now, according to The Mirror, Micheli is playing an integral role in Arsenal’s negotiations for another Georgian talent.
Arsenal in talks for 17-year-old Georgian wonderkid
Arsenal are in discussions over a possible move for Georgia under-21 international Andria Bartishvili, with rival interest coming from Juventus.
Both clubs are in discussions with Bartishvili’s representative Giorgi Jugeli as they look to reach an agreement.
The diminutive and skilful Bartishvili can operate as a number eight, number ten, left winger or right winger.
His versatility, dribbling, vision and long-range shooting have left a lasting impression on Arsenal’s recruitment team. Nothing is guaranteed yet, but it is a deal the club are actively exploring.
Bartishvili will remain on loan at Iberia 1999 from Kolkheti 1913 until the end of 2026, and would not be able to join Arsenal until his 18th birthday on 30 March due to Brexit regulations.
Arsenal are investing heavily in young talent
There is a huge internal push to improve Arsenal’s youth-team ranks after a poor season across the board.
The U21s and U18s both struggled, while the U19s were eliminated from the UEFA Youth League at the group stage, finishing 33rd out of 36 teams.
Per Mertesacker has since stepped down as academy director after 15 years at the club, with his successor in the final stages of being appointed.
But Arsenal have still been actively investing in youth talent. Personal terms have already been agreed with Jeremy Monga, though Arsenal’s opening bid for the Leicester winger was rejected.
Arsenal are also ready to move for Tottenham’s Elijah Upson once his scholarship deal expires, while PSG U19s captain Emmanuel Mbemba is another target as the club continues to futureproof the squad.
Ecuadorian twins Edwin and Holger Quintero have already agreed to join the Gunners, as has Shamrock Rovers wonderkid Victor Ozhianvuna.
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