Napoli have reportedly named the asking price for their in-demand centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly amid continuous Paris Saint-Germain links. According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the Partenopei are ready to sanction their defender’s departure for approximately €35million.
Koulibaly has less than two years left to run on his current contract at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Despite overcoming a bust-up with the Napoli bigwig Aurelio De Laurentiis, the 30-year-old has not been offered new terms in Naples.
In fact, Napoli consider the prospect of offloading their long-serving stalwart in the summer as part of the club’s bid to overhaul a squad that has experienced another trophyless season. Koulibaly has been a regular start under Luciano Spalletti this season, yet his patchy form could spell the end to his career in southern Italy.
After several Premier League sides, including Liverpool and Manchester United, PSG are now the front-runners in the race to sign the Senegal international. The newly-crowned Ligue 1 champions are in the market for defensive reinforcements, and for a good reason.
Presnel Kimpembe has failed to leave up to expectations, while Sergio Ramos’ recurring injury problems may lead to his premature exit from the Parc des Princes. It would leave head coach Mauricio Pochettino short of dependable options at the back.
Marquinhos has been the only reliable centre-back option this season, and PSG are looking to pair him up with another top-class defender. Since the financial aspect of the deal should not trouble Les Parisiens, Koulibaly’s next stop after Napoli could be in Paris.
However, watch out for Barcelona. The Catalan heavyweights are on the lookout for defensive additions following a leaky campaign. Xavi has already identified Koulibaly as a potential solution.
Given the growing interest in the Senegalese star’s services, Napoli must be rubbing hands ahead of the summer transfer window.