Everton could make a surprising move for Napoli centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly in the current transfer window. The experienced Senegal international has been one of the top performers in Serie A in recent seasons and was linked with a big move away from Naples in the past.
Calciomercato‘s report states that Everton have made an offer to sign Koulibaly, although there is no information on the offer that the Toffees have sent. Recent reports have claimed that the 30-year-old could be available for a fee of around £35 million – a far cry from the £100-odd million that Napoli demanded in the past.
Koulibaly has made over 280 appearances for the Italian club in seven seasons. His current contract with Napoli expires in 2023.
Kalidou Koulibaly: A smashing move by the club?
Everton will look to rebuild once again under new manager Rafa Benitez and hope to breach the top 6 of the Premier League. The Toffees have a talented group of players, but certain positions lack depth or don’t have the quality to compete with the top clubs in England.
A move for Kalidou Koulibaly could be a wise one by Everton and Benitez as the Senegalese defender would add world-class quality to the backline. Benitez will know all about Koulibaly and the quality he possesses having managed him for one season at Napoli. The 30-year-old is a quick, strong and powerful defender who commands his area of the pitch. He is also a fantastic passer of the ball, capable of playing it long and short.
Koulibaly has the experience and awareness to bring calmness and leadership to the Everton backline, which is something they have been missing since the departure of Phil Jagielka. The Napoli defender could fit in well in the Premier League as he has the pace and physicality to handle the English game.
Kalidou Koulibaly could slot in alongside Michael Keane or Yerry Mina at the back, while young defenders, Ben Godfrey and Mason Holgate, could be backup options or fill in at right-back. The addition of Koulibaly could also give Benitez the option of playing a three-man backline, thanks to the Napoli defender’s ability with the ball at his feet.
Rafa Benitez’s teams are built on strong defences and the signing of Koulibaly could go a long way in achieving it. The Senegal international has all the qualities to be a success on the blue half of Merseyside and help Benitez take Everton to the top 6 of the Premier League.