Man Utd’s bid rejected: Manchester United received a huge setback in their pursuit of Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly.
Manchester United have been facing a defensive crisis for many years. Since the arrival of Jose Mourinho, the club has made two significant central defensive signings in Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof, but the issues don’t seem to end.
This season, Eric Bailly’s poor form caused worry for Mourinho earlier into the season, and the United is currently the only side in the Premier League top-10 to have a negative goal difference.
In the summer, Manchester United reportedly vetoed Mourinho’s transfer list, and the manager took digs in press conferences at the United’s board.
However, it is being reported that the club made a bid for Napoli’s high-rated defender Kalidou Koulibaly, but United received a setback as the Italian side rejected the bid.
Man Utd’s bid rejected:
Manchester United have been linked with a move for Kalidou Koulibaly by Italian and English media. The defender proved his mettle at Napoli and played a key role in the side’s league campaign last season.
Manchester United have reportedly had a €90m bid rejected by Napoli for star Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly. Mourinho is in pursuit of a centre back and has identified the Napoli defender as a top target. (Football Italia) #MUFC #Napoli pic.twitter.com/XCFysqGvuC
— Himmatt🇾🇪 (@FootyHimmatt7) November 18, 2018
Koulibaly is also nominated for BBC African Player of the Year.
However, according to La Republicca, Manchester United received a shock on their pursuit of the footballer. Napoli has promptly rejected a €90m bid for Koulibaly, who signed a new contract with the club earlier this summer, until 2023.
News of United having a bit of €90M rejected for Koulibaly. I say do whatever we can to get him. Have watched a lot of serie a, last season specifically and he is superb. A proper tank. Would sure up the defence perfectly. #MUFC
— MUFC_Source_ (@MUFC_Source_) November 18, 2018
Moreover, Napoli has stated that the side won’t consider a bid below €100m.
Top European sides like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City are eyeing a move for Koulibaly.
€90m for Koulibaly rejected and €75m for Skriniar in the summer rejected.
How are we to sign defenders if clubs even reject our over-inflated offers? https://t.co/6dPQznHW2r
— Suraj (@MeisterSuraj) November 18, 2018
Kalidou Koulibaly has been a ‘top defensive priority’ for Manchester United, according to Daily Record’s journalist Duncan Castles.
Manchester United boss José Mourinho is determined to sign Napoli ace Kalidou Koulibaly – which could pave the way for Eric Bailly’s move to Arsenal. (Source: Daily Express) pic.twitter.com/YEq6zZa2hR
— ManUtd FollowBack (@MU_FollowBack) November 19, 2018
Earlier reports suggested that Bailly and Rojo will leave to make space for a new defensive signing, while some suggested that the Argentine defender would be accompanied by Phil Jones on his way out from Old Trafford.
What next?
Manchester United’s troubles don’t seem to end, as defender Victor Lindelof faces injury fear after being substituted at halftime against Turkey during the international break.
According to his teammate Andreas Granqvist, the defender was feeling ‘unwell’ before the game, but played for 45 minutes.
