Pranav Nair
Manchester United ahead of Liverpool in the race to land Kalidou Koulibaly
Reach PLC’s Transfer Window Podcast (h/t The Express), Ian McGarry has revealed that Manchester United hold the edge over Liverpool in the race to sign Kalidou Koulibaly.
The Senegalese centre-back is one of the best defenders in the game and would be an excellent addition to any backline in Europe. Given United’s need, there are few players better than the 29-year-old.
United have been linked with Koulibaly and have a good opportunity to land him this summer. Liverpool, who are also keen on reinforcing their backline have cooled their interest in the Napoli ace.
According to McGarry, United can land Koulibaly for around €45million this summer. It represents a steep drop off in valuation for a player who would have cost €90m a year ago.
“We know that Manchester United are interested and also Liverpool, although Liverpool have cooled their interest somewhat”
Koulibaly has been a dedicated servant for Napoli since joining them from Genk in 2014. He has since made 283 appearances for the Gli Azzuri, scoring 11 goals and assisting five. (h/t Transfermarkt)
“He was available for €90m in last summer’s transfer window but we understand that a fee of around €60m (£51.6m), potentially even as little as €45m would be enough to secure his services.”
The time is now!
The Senegalese superstar will turn 30 in July and with him set to enter the final years of his career, Napoli is keen to cash in. The pandemic has hit them hard and it could worsen if they fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Not matching AC Milan or Juventus’ result on the final day could see Gennaro Gattuso’s side have to settle for a Europa League berth.
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United appear to be after Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, who is set to be a free agent next year. Koulibaly is older and represents a cheaper alternative to the French international.
Despite his age, the 29-year-old still has a few years left in his locker and could form a commanding presence at the back for United. Whether the Red Devils decide to make a splash remains to be seen.
