The future of reported Everton target Kalidou Koulibaly is “in the balance” at Napoli as agent Fali Ramadani struggles to open contract talks with the Serie A outfit, according to Calciomercato.
Speaking to Corriere dello Sport almost a year ago, Napoli owner Aurelio de Laurentiis made it clear arguably the finest centre-back in world football wouldn’t be going anywhere for a penny less than €100 million (£86 million).
Flash forward ten months, however, and things feel very different.
With just two years remaining on the contract of a defender who will turn 30 in June – and with the covid crisis driving down his price tag – Koulibaly is suddenly available for a far lower sum.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Napoli would be willing to consider offers of about £45 million these days.
Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti is keen to reunite with a man he described as the “best in the world” during their time together at the Stadio San Paolo (Independent).
Of course, a new long-term contract would raise Koulibaly’s market value once again – but agreeing fresh terms is proving to be easier said than done.
Ramadani has failed in his attempts to open talks, with De Laurentiis weighing up whether to sell or keep his long-serving Senegal international.
As a result, Koulibaly’s future is more uncertain now than in any previous transfer window.
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