Kalidou Koulibaly, one of the highest-rated center-backs in football currently, has long been linked with a move to a European giant, namely the heavyweights of the Premier League. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport (as per CalcioNapoli24), the Senegalese defender could get his England transfer this summer.
The Italian news outlet claim that one Premier League side are even closing on an agreement for the 29-year-old. That club are none other than Man City.
The Citizens interest in the Serie A star comes as little surprise. After their disappointing Premier League season and embarrassing Champions League exit at the hands of Lyon, Guardiola is in dire need of defensive reinforcements.
Given that the Abu Dhabi-owned club have been cleared to play in the UCL next season, Pep should have a huge transfer war chest at his exposal. Nonetheless, City are expected to land Koulibaly on a cheaper fee when compared to Napoli’s original asking price.
His Serie A employers have lowered the fee for the Senegalese defender to $83M, an amount the Citizens are open to paying. Napoli wish to wrap up his exit as soon as possible in order to pursue his replacement.
Gattuso and Co. already know who they want and that is Lille’s Gabriel Magelhaes. The reason for their urgency is the interest from Arsenal, with the Gunners having lodged a bid for the Brazilian. According to the rumors, the player will now have to choose between Napoli and Arteta’s side, with the center-back said to be favoring the north London giants.
