Despite already agreeing a deal with Bournemouth for the transfer of Nathan Ake, Manchester City still have their sights set on Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly.
The Senegalese has been one of world football’s best defenders in recent seasons and has attracted interest from a number of Europe’s elite clubs. After several years of being constantly linked with a move away, he may finally be departing Stadio San Paolo this summer with Manchester City lurking. The Citizens are looking to reinforce their defence which constantly let them down as they surrendered their Premier League crown to Liverpool.
After saying goodbye to club legend Vincent Kompany, City failed to replace him and faced the consequences severely in the just concluded premier league season. Little surprise why they are now addressing the issue with utmost priority.
It has been a busy last couple of weeks at the Etihad. Since the overturning of their European ban, Manchester City have certainly not messed around in the transfer market with deals for Ake and Ferran Torres close to completion.
City’s continued interest in Koulibaly might just be an indication that Ake was signed mainly to provide depth rather than as a mainstay in the heart of the back four alongside Aymeric Laporte. Once again, Napoli’s president Aurelio De Laurentiis will prove a tough nut to crack as he will ensure that he gets as much money as possible from the sale of his most-prized asset.
Should he prove too tough a nut to crack, City could turn their attention to Villareal’s Pau Torres who is also one of their targets. The Spaniard enjoyed a fantastic campaign as his side secured qualification for the Europa League group stages. He is expected to be a cheaper alternative to Koulibaly with a difference of about €50m in the valuation of both players.
