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Southampton FC face Battle for Napoli Defender Kalidou Koulibaly

ByRobert Molnar|
St. Mary's Stadium (Credit: Ingy the Wingy -- Flickr Creative Commons)
St. Mary's Stadium (Credit: Ingy the Wingy -- Flickr Creative Commons)

Southampton FC are likely in for a fight in their attempt to sign Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly. The Mirror is reporting that the Saints are set to battle newly promoted Premier League side Norwich City in an attempt to sign the French defender.

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The 24-year old joined Napoli last summer from Belgian side Racing Genk. A former member of the France U20 National Team, Kalidou Koulibaly looks set to trade Italy’s Seria A for arguably the best league in the world, the English Premier League.

The center back appeared in 10 matches for Rafa Benitez last season in his debut campaign with Napoli. The French player also appeared in four of the club’s Europa League matches last year.

Following the loss of Toby Alderweireld to Tottenham, Ronald Koeman remain’s keen on bringing in top quality defenders. The loss of Florin Gardos to injury has also put a strain on the Saints options at center back with Jose Fonte and Maya Yoshida the only players returning from last season at that position.

Brought in this summer to help with depth at the position was QPR defender Steven Caulker. The Englishman is only signed to a season long loan contract making the 23-year old a short term fix to the Saints depth issues.

Also on Southampton’s wishlist has been Celtic center back Virgil van Dijk. However, Southampton FC would likely need to defeat fellow Premier League clubs Everton and Sunderland, two clubs with both history and managerial skill.

The Mirror also goes on to say that Southampton have launched a £8.5 million bid for the defender. The official bid from the Saints has caused Norwich City to also throw their name into the hat for the 24-year old’s signature.

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Whether the Canaries can match that offer from Southampton FC is unknown. With the Canaries returning to the Premier League after one year in the English Championship, the squad’s current budget could be depleted.

The 6’5 defender will also provide Southampton FC with a major areal threat on corners and free-kicks. Kalidou Koulibaly will also provide defensive safety for the Saints on the opposing team’s set pieces given his height.

While the 24-year old will likely take time to adjust to the Premier League, their is no doubt that Kalidou Koulibaly could become the club’s best defender in time. His quality will improve overtime, giving him a one-two punch with his height and skill levels.

However, the deal is not final yet. Until that time comes, Southampton FC and Norwich City will continue to battle to secure the signature of Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly.

Next: Rangers FC Close to Gedion Zelalem Loan

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