Battle brews as Barcelona eye 16-year-old Georgian left-back while Real Madrid lurk

Barcelona’s success this season is surprising for several reasons, and while their sudden turnaround in form is the biggest highlight, the sheer age of the core is another flabbergasting aspect.

For the Catalans to do what they are with such a young squad is simply unbelievable, especially given that they utilise two 17-year-olds as regular first-team players week in and week out.

Yet, that has been the club’s philosophy over the years – to catch talents young and develop them into the profiles they require suited to their style of play.

Now, according to reports from AS, the Blaugrana may have identified the next young piece to their puzzle.

A gem in Georgia

The Spanish outlet relays that the Catalans have documented interest in Georgia’s 16-year-old pearl Saba Kharebashvili who is making headlines with Dinamo Tbilisi.

The left-back sensation already has recorded 19 appearances for the club in this season’s Erovnuli Liga and has recorded two assists in that duration. Further, he averages over 12 defensive actions per game and completes 81% of his passes.

Kharebashvili is one of world football’s most highly-rated young left-backs and has several factors in his favour to aid him in becoming a world-class player.

The youngster’s rise to the elite at a young age has been possible only owing to his immense maturity, ability on the ball and great tactical understanding. Further, his great physique enables him to be a force to reckon with in defence.

Dinamo Tbilisi have recently opened an office in Barcelona and are reportedly open to negotiating deals with European giants to sell their talents to. The Blaugrana hope to sign the player for their long-term plans and possibly as a backup for Alejandro Balde.

Also in the race for his signing are Real Madrid and other European giants and it remains to be seen how the race turns out in an economic sense.