Why Leicester should make a move for Solomon Kvirkvelia this summer
Back in September 2019, Lokomotiv Moscow centre-back Solomon Kvirkvelia’s agent, Mamuka Dzugheli, had told the Sport Business Gazetta (h/t The Leicester Mercury) that his client would be interested in joining Leicester City.
Solomon Kvirkvelia, 28, turned down the chance to sign for the Foxes for €10million back in 2017 as he wanted to stay in the Russian Premier League. (h/t The Leicester Mercury) The Georgian international, who joined Lokomotiv Moscow in 2017 after a successful loan stint at Rubin Kazan, helped his club win the league in 2018.
After making 41 appearances across all competitions last season, the 28-year-old has struggled to break into the first-team this season. He has found himself out of favour for the majority of the campaign, managing just four league appearances so far.
With Kvirkvelia having struggled to get regular game time at Lokomotiv Moscow this term, Leicester City must take advantage of the situation and attempt to sign him during the summer transfer window.
The Foxes are in a position of strength as far as the race for a top-four finish in the Premier League is concerned. They have coped well with the departure of Harry Maguire to Manchester United last summer, with Caglar Soyuncu stepping up to the plate.
Soyuncu and Jonny Evans have formed a strong partnership at the back, with Leicester only conceding 28 goals in 29 games. To add some much-needed cover for the pair, Brendan Rodgers signed Ryan Bennett on loan from Wolves in January.
But with Wes Morgan 36 and out of contract this summer, the Foxes’ need for options at the back next season is well documented and they must revive their interest in Solomon Kvirkvelia.
Kvirkvelia has proven himself in Russia, having played over 160 top-flight games. He spent five years with Rubin Kazan, helping the club win the 2011/12 Russian Cup. At Lokomotiv Moscow, the Georgian international has won Russia Cup twice and lifted the Russia Premier League two seasons ago.
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Truly, Kvirkvelia has shown his quality in the Russian Premier League and has the attributes to shine in the Premier League. At 28, he’s operating at the peak of his powers and would be a solid option to add strength to Rodgers’ defensive options at the King Power Stadium.
The Foxes need more depth in their squad to potentially compete in Europe next term and the Georgian could make a difference.
Verdict
This may be his best opportunity to test himself at a higher level and play in Europe. Kvirkvelia may not have played in England before but if he can quickly adapt to the demands of Premier League football, he would be a valuable addition to Leicester’s backline ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
