Liverpool F.C. have put a formal contract on the table for Georgian teenager Andria Bartishvili, matching Arsenal’s proposal as both clubs vie for the 17‑year‑old attacking talent.

Why is Bartishvili on Liverpool’s radar?

The Reds have been busy this summer, signing Jeremy Jacquet for £60 million and Victor Munoz for £34.5 million, but the club’s scouting network still eyes a long‑term creative spark. Bartishvili, on loan at Erovnuli Liga side Iberia 1999, impressed in a 3‑2 Champions League qualifier win over Tallinna FC Flora, playing 80 minutes and contributing two goals and three assists in 18 games. Georgian insiders compare him to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, suggesting he could become the next big export from the country.

How did the clubs assess the prospect?

Directors from Liverpool and Arsenal flew to Estonia to watch the qualifier, according to GEO Team insider Dave Ockop. Both sides reportedly presented “identical contract” offers, leaving Bartishvili and his family to choose between Anfield and the Emirates. Arsenal’s head of scouting Mauricio Micheli was present and left “highly impressed,” according to the source. Liverpool’s new manager, Iraola, may have the edge if he can promise a quicker route to first‑team minutes than Mikel Arteta can.

What does the timing mean for Liverpool?

Bartishvili returns to his parent club Kolkheti Poti at the end of 2026, when his contract expires. That window gives Liverpool a chance to secure him on a free transfer or negotiate a modest compensation fee. With Liverpool currently sitting 5th in the Premier League, 60 points from 38 games and a recent form of D L D L W, the club is looking to add depth ahead of a title chase that sees them 25 points behind leaders Arsenal.

What could the signing change for Liverpool?

If the deal goes through, Bartishvili would add versatility to Liverpool’s attack, capable of playing across the front line or as an attacking midfielder. His creative instincts could complement the likes of Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez, while offering a long‑term solution as the club plans for the post‑Van Dijk era. The competition with Arsenal also signals Liverpool’s intent to stay ahead in the market for emerging talent, a strategy that has already delivered players like Jacquet and Munoz.

What’s next for the transfer battle?

Both clubs are expected to finalize their offers within the next two weeks, with the teenager’s family set to decide before the summer window closes. Liverpool’s hierarchy will likely lean on Iraola’s promise of early first‑team exposure, while Arsenal may tout their recent domestic success. The outcome will shape Liverpool’s summer narrative as they aim to close the 25‑point gap to Arsenal and push for a top‑four finish.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Bartishvili underscores a broader strategy: blend proven signings with high‑potential youngsters to sustain competitiveness in a league where they currently sit 5th with 60 points, 63 goals scored and 53 conceded.