According to a recent report by Corriere dello Sport (via Calciomercato), Manchester United had a €90m offer declined by Napoli for their Senegalese centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly during the summer transfer window. The same source has mentioned that the Serie A prospect seems like he will be staying with the Naples outfit beyond this summer.
However, the Red Devils should consider reigniting their interest on Koulibaly when the transfer window reopens in January as he is widely regarded as one of the best centre-halves in European football.
Koulibaly’s Impressive Spell At The San Paolo Stadium
The Senegal international had another solid campaign with Napoli last season when he put in a series of commanding performances at the back under Carlo Ancelotti’s tutelage. The 28-year-old appeared in 48 matches for the Italian side in the last term, scoring two goals while creating one assist on all fronts.
He was a defensive rock inside his own half as evidenced by his average of 1.7 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 3.9 clearances per game in the Italian top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Koulibaly was also an important member of the Senegal squad that reached the final of the African Cup of Nations earlier this summer. He has represented his country in 32 international matches and has scored one goal in the process.
What Will Koulibaly Bring To Old Trafford?
Koulibaly is a powerhouse inside his own box and can lead his backline with authority and conviction. He is also a dominant presence in the air at both ends of the pitch and can make some vital interceptions for his team.
The Senegalese talent is also one of the best ball-playing defenders in Europe which explains why the Red Devils along with Barcelona and Real Madrid were named as potential suitors for him this summer (via Calciomercato).
Should Solskjaer Orchestrate Another Move For Him In January?
Even though Solskjaer’s attempt was rejected by Napoli, the Norwegian manager shouldn’t lose hope in pursuit of Koulibaly. It seems like the Red Devils might get another chance to test Napoli’s resistance in January. Man United can have the most robust defence in the Premier League if they can find a way to pair Harry Maguire up with Koulibaly in the coming years. It will go a long way in helping them bridge the gap to Manchester City and Liverpool at the top of the Premier League standings.
