According to a recent report by the Times, Manchester United will need to cough up £90m if they want to sign Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli during the January transfer window. The same report also states that some Man United chiefs recently held discussions with the Italian club over a potential transfer when the transfer period commences next month.
The Senegalese defender, who is one of the top names in Jose Mourinho’s wish-list, has been in sensational form for the Naples based club this season and has already put in some commanding displays at the back under Carlo Ancelotti’s tutelage. He is arguably the most integral member of the current Napoli squad, so it is no surprise that the Serie A giants are demanding such a high fee for his services.
The 27-year-old has featured in 20 matches for the Italian outfit this term and has two assists to his name across multiple competitions. He has also earned 31 international caps for the Senegalese national side and was a significant part of their 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Koulibaly is a strong, athletic and powerful defender which makes him one of the most sought-after talents in European football. He is a defensive powerhouse and is renowned for his timely interceptions and aerial prowess.
The addition of someone of Koulibaly’s quality could completely transform United’s defensive shortcomings this season which would go a long way in helping them challenge for a top 4 place in the second half of this campaign. The Red Devils have conceded 26 goals in 16 matches and currently find themselves in the 6th spot of the Premier League table, a whopping 16 points behind the league leaders, Liverpool.
Should Mourinho Pay £90m For Koulibaly?
If United can somehow manage to lure the Senegalese international to Old Trafford, then it would be a massive coup for Mourinho which could help him turn his career around at the red half of Manchester. Hence, even if United has to pay over the odds and land Koulibaly for £90m, the Mancunian heavyweights should consider making such a move as they would be getting a top-class defender who could change their fortunes for the better.
After all, let us not forget a lot of people cringed when Liverpool paid over the odds (at that time) for Van Dijk. Now, no one even mentions the Dutchman’s £75 million price tag. Transfer fees are all relative and all that matters is the success of an incoming player.
