Liverpool pushing hard to sign Kalidou Koulibaly
Liverpool’s backline needs improvement, and this has been quite clear to see for a while now. The only defensive addition the Reds have made so far has seen Kostas Tsimikas make the switch to Anfield.
But that alone is not going to do much to add to their defensive structure. Finding a partner for Virgil van Dijk has been an issue for Liverpool as neither Joe Gomez, nor Joel Matip, have been able to deliver the goods when required. This report by the Express is now touting the Reds to make a move for Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly.
The Senegalese international centre-half has been widely regarded to be among the best defenders in European football at the moment, and with good reason. Standing at well over 1.8m tall, the defensive giant has the general quality as well as physical attributes required to settle into the feisty nature of the Premier League.
Although he has never played in this league before, the fact that Koulibaly’s playing style could be suited to England must be taken into consideration.
While there are multiple positives that can be derived from this potential transfer, it must be conceded that there are heavy risks involved in the move as well. Despite being one of the highest-rated defenders in the Serie A, his rising age will come as a concern.
Now 29, questions will surely be asked about the player’s capability to settle into the aggressive style of the English game. Moreover, with Manchester City reportedly in the equation as well, it’s likely that the transfer fee involved will be exorbitant.
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Van Dijk, over the last couple of seasons, has developed into one of the best defenders in world football. The likes of Sergio Ramos and Thiago Silva are likely the only names that can offer him any competition on this regard right now.
Gomez’s general lack of composure and Matip’s inability to remain consistent and his fitness issues, will surely be playing in the back of Jurgen Klopp’s mind. By signing Koulibaly, Liverpool would be directly addressing this issue, even if it could turn out to be a short-term solution.
