According to a report from Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, Man City may have been dealt a potential set back in their pursuit of Napoli stalwart Kalidou Koulibaly – with club chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis apparently refusing to compromise on his lofty €100 million asking price.
The Sky Blues have been linked with a move for the 28-year-old over these past few weeks, with an exclusive piece from le10sport recently revealing that both City and bitter rivals Man United are firmly in the hunt for his signature.
As well as the two Manchester clubs, league leaders Liverpool, Arsenal and European giants Real Madrid are also apparently in the running – but Pep Guardiola’s side having to contend with this array of top clubs appears irrelevant when taking into account Napoli’s stance on their defensive star.
La Gazzetta can reveal that De Laurentiis is unwilling to negotiate his steep valuation, with the Napoli chairman and film producer allegedly dead set on a €100 million (£87.9 million) offer or nothing.
Should City pay £87.9 million to land Koulibaly?
Get the deal done, splash the cash
Far too expensive for a 28-year-old
Due to City’s recent two-year Champions League ban after being accused of breaking Financial Fair Play rules, it may be difficult for the club to warrant paying a sum that size – especially for a centre-back who is seemingly on the cusp of reaching the twilight phase of his career.
Once described as ‘extraordinary‘ by ex-Premier League shot-stopper Pepe Reina, it’s clear the Senegalese international is highly rated – but De Laurentiis’ stance on selling the centre-half could prove to be a set back in City’s bid to land capable defensive acquisitions for next season.