Chelsea have had a bid rejected by Napoli for Kalidou Koulibaly, but the defender is allegedly keen to leave the Stadion San Paolo.
Juventus’s Sami Khedira in action against Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly
Chelsea have had a £19.2 million rejected by Napoli for Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, according to The Mirror.
Napoli are believed to be holding out for £30 million for the defender, who has become an integral part of the set-up in southern Italy.
Napoli finished second in Serie A, two points clear of AS Roma, ensuring their place in next season’s Champions League.
Koulibaly is wanted by Chelsea
But Champions League football may not be the main priority for Koulibaly, who has already discussed the idea of leaving the club with L’Equipe.
Speaking to the French media outlet, Koulibaly said “Big clubs want to sign me and there is no sign of a renewal with Napoli.
“The negotiations for a contract extension have stalled and they never wanted to discuss with us.”
Koulibaly is waiting to talk to Conte
On whether he has spoken to Conte, Koulibaly said he hadn’t but said he expects to in the near future.
“No, I have not talked to Antonio Conte but that may be soon,” he said. “If nothing happens at Napoli, I will start to have contact with other clubs.”
The 24-year-old defender made 42 appearances for the Partnopeilast season.
Will Koulibaly swap the blue of Napoli for the blue of Chelsea?
He joined Napoli in 2014 from Racing Genk and he is renowned not only for his defensive prowess but also his ability on the ball, something that may appeal to current Italy boss Antonio Conte.
Conte may need to sign a centre-half this summer, with only Kurt Zouma, the ageing John Terry and Gary Cahil currently at his disposal.
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