Manchester United’s long-winded pursuit of Kalidou Koulibaly could end soon as Napoli reportedly plan to offer him a new contract, plus the captaincy.
The centre-half has been on United’s radar for some time. They were looking into the possibility of signing him last summer, only to be put off by Napoli’s asking price.
The Italian outfit reportedly want at least £100million to enter into a deal. That is despite Koulibaly being 30 years old.
A potential transfer to Old Trafford seemed to be off the cards. However, reports in February put United back in the mix for the Senegal international.
Harry Maguire has come in for criticism this term, while Manchester United are yet to see the best of Raphael Varane.
Koulibaly would be a top-class signing for the Red Devils, although their chances of capturing him are diminishing.
According to Football Italia, who cite Calciomercato, Koulibaly is in line for a new contract at the Diego Maradona Stadium.
Kalidou Koulibaly to receive extension
The defender’s current terms expire in 2023, but the new deal would see him remain with Napoli until at least 2025.
According to Salary Sport, Koulibaly is the highest earner at Napoli – taking home £183,000 each week. This will be reduced slightly as part of the new contract as Koulibaly heads towards the twilight years of his career.
However, he will remain some way ahead of Napoli’s second and third highest earners.
Luciano Spalletti’s side want to give Koulibaly the captaincy next season. They need a new talisman as Lorenzo Insigne will join Toronto in the summer.
Star to become permanent captain
Koulibaly has been skipper several times this campaign, and it will become a permanent sight in 2022-23. Napoli hope this decision will convince him to stay, potentially for the remainder of his career.
Back in October, the 57-cap international spoke about leaving Italy. Moes to Manchester City, Barcelona or Real Madrid had been on his radar.
But City never came in for Koulibaly due to his huge price tag. Plus, Pep Guardiola already has impressive options at centre-half.
Koulibaly is likely to end his career at Napoli, should the new deal go through. He will be looking to add to his winners medals, which include the 2020 Coppa Italia and 2015 Supercoppa Italiana.
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