Arsenal have reached a pre-contract agreement to sign Georgian wonderkid Andria Bartishvili from second-tier side Kolkheti 1913. The £3.9 million deal, which was reportedly agreed in late August, will see the highly rated 17-year-old move to North London in July 2027, shortly after turning 18. Until then, Bartishvili is expected to continue developing in Georgian football before making the next step in his career.

Bartishvili has earned the nickname Akhali Kvara, meaning New Kvara, because of similarities between his style and that of Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. His close control, dribbling ability and intelligent movement have attracted considerable attention, while his versatility allows him to operate across several attacking positions. He has experience as a number 10, false nine, centre-forward and either wing, while his ability to use both feet adds another dimension to his game.

The teenager has already gained valuable senior experience after joining Iberia 1999 on loan in January. Playing in Georgia’s top flight, he contributed two goals and three assists in 24 appearances before his loan spell is scheduled to end. At international level, Bartishvili has represented Georgia at both youth and senior-development levels, including two appearances for the Under-21 side after previously scoring seven goals in 15 matches for the Under-17 team.

Arsenal are expected to initially integrate Bartishvili into their academy when he arrives in England, with the possibility of challenging for a place in the senior squad during the 2027/28 season. His arrival highlights the club’s continued focus on developing promising young talent, while comparisons with Kvaratskhelia have naturally increased expectations around the Georgian prospect. Kvaratskhelia himself remains under contract with Paris Saint-Germain until 2029, meaning Bartishvili will have the opportunity to establish his own identity rather than simply follow the path of his more established compatriot.