According to Il Matino, Liverpool have contacted super agent Fali Ramadani in regards to the availability of Kalidou Koulibaly. The Napoli defender has been highly linked with a move away from San Paolo Stadium this summer, with Manchester United being a potential destination. And now it seems Liverpool have entered the chase to sign the Senegalese international.
It is believed that Koulibaly is expected to cost at least €110-120 million. But, despite his hefty valuation, we can expect Liverpool and Napoli to hold negotiations over the player in the coming days.
What can Koulibaly bring to the table?
Koulibaly is regarded as one of Europe’s best defenders, having enjoyed five successful seasons at Napoli since joining the club from KRC Genk back in 2014. He is mainly known for his excellent passing range that allows him to not only facilitate his side’s build-up play but also launch counter attacks with accurate long-balls.
The 27-year-old attained a pass completion rate of 88% in the recently concluded Serie A campaign. He also averaged an impressive 3.3 accurate long passes per game. But aside from his passing, Koulibaly is a solid defender, whose physical prowess gives him the edge over the opposition.
Koulibaly is strong in tackles and very good when it comes to reading the game. And this is backed by statistics, with the defender averaging 1.7 tackles and 1.1 interceptions per game. He also made nearly four clearances per match, which is indicative of his doggedness at the back.
Furthermore, the Napoli defender has a tall frame of 187cm that makes him an intimidating figure for the opposition. It also gives him a considerable advantage in the air, making him a threat from indirect set-pieces.
Is Koulibaly a good option for Liverpool?
Koulibaly is undoubtedly someone who, alongside Virgil van Dijk, can make the Liverpool defence almost impenetrable. The 27-year-old has a vast amount of experience at the highest level of football and could be an excellent partner for the Dutchman.
That being said, the fact that the Senegalese international could cost around €110-120 million makes him an unrealistic target for Liverpool, especially at a time where the Reds are in desperate need of signing a backup for Mohamed Salah. They also need to sign a back-up for Alisson as well as a midfielder, who can compete with Naby Keita and Georginio Wijnaldum.
But one thing is for sure – Koulibaly has the quality to make Liverpool arguably the best team in Europe going into this new campaign.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
