Chelsea’s raid on Serie A is set to begin with a €25m bid tabled for Napoli’s highly-rated centre back, Kalidou Koulibaly, 25.
New Blues boss, Antonio Conte, is a keen admirer of the Senegalese international and with an ageing back four, is keen to bring in experienced replacements.
The versatile defender, comfortable in the centre or on the right as well as in the defensive midfield role, was widely praised in the media for his performances as Napoli finished second behind champions, Juventus.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is preparing to play hardball with the Premier League club, insisting that Koulibaly will only be sold for £30m. If that valuation isn’t met, the player will see out the remainder of his contract, he added.
The Neapolitan is furious that Koulibaly appeared to encourage Chelsea’s interest. Speaking recently, he said, “I have not talked to [Antonio Conte] but that may be soon.
“The game in England could be suitable for me but I like Italy. I do not press for a transfer but I hope to sign a renewal with Napoli or we proceed to other solutions.”
It provoked an angry response from De Laurentiis who immediately threatened legal action against club and player, before adding disappointingly, “I had thought Koulibaly was a good man.”
With their €25m bid rejected, Chelsea are expected to return with an improved offer very quickly before they become embroiled in a bidding war for Koulibaly’s services.
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