According to recent reports, Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is eager to make a move for Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly in January. It is understood that the Portuguese manager has asked his bosses at Old Trafford to make funds available so that he can snap up the Serie A star during the winter transfer period.
Manchester United’s Defensive Struggles This Season
Manchester United have struggled to live up to the high expectations of their supporters this season. The Red Devils have recently come under a lot of criticism due to their defensive shortcomings during the first few weeks of this campaign. Hence, recruiting a world-class centre-back when the transfer window reopens in January is of the utmost importance for the Mancunian giants if they are to earn a top 4 place at the end of this season.
Can Koulibaly Improve United’s Poor Defensive Record?
Koulibaly has put in a number of solid performances at the back for Carlo Ancelotti’s side during this season which was highlighted when he put in a man of the match display versus Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League earlier this month. Koulibaly is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in European football which is why United should do everything in their power to snap him up in the near future.
The Senegalese defender can play out from the back and is a dominant presence at both ends of the pitch. The 27-year-old centre-half has a giant frame which makes him aerially dominant while he also has enough pace to cover a lot of ground and tidy up in defence when required.
The Napoli defensive ace has all the attributes of a world-class defender, and his potential acquisition would undoubtedly improve Mourinho’s backline significantly while also adding a lot of competition for places within the United squad.
Will Koulibaly Be An Ideal Signing For The Red Devils?
The 27-year-old will be a perfect fit for Mourinho’s system at Old Trafford as he can slot in alongside Chris Smalling at the heart of the Man United backline. Moreover, the Red Devils boss can also choose to play three at the back with Koulibaly, Lindelof and Smalling which makes him an even more attractive proposition.