Manchester City are ahead of rivals Manchester United and PSG in the race for Kalidou Koulibaly.
That’s according to journalist Ciro Venerato, who says Pep Guardiola’s side are ‘ready’ to finalise a deal for the Senegalese centre-back.
City have long been linked with a move for the defender, who is expected to leave Napoli this summer after they failed to qualify for the Champions League.
There have been several months of speculation about a move to the Etihad, with the latest reports stating that Manchester City were ‘ahead’ of the competition and this week could be ‘decisive’.
Venerato has now backed that up with his latest comments, indicating that things are speeding up in the potential mega transfer
“Koulibaly”? Manchester City over United and PSG, just because the team are ready now to take the Senegalese,” he told Radio Kiss Kiss, relayed by Il Napoli Online.
“After the transfer, Gabriel Magalhaes will come, who Lille blocked for Napoli. I repeat, however, Napoli must sell before buying – after the super purchase of Victor Osimhen.
“That’s why Gabriel will only arrive after Koulibaly’s farewell.
“Same thing for Jeremie Boga: Naples has asked Sassuolo to wait because, precisely, after Osimhen you just have to give in before buying.”
Positive news for Manchester City, then, who seem to be edging closer towards a move for Koulibaly after months of chasing his signature.
Venerato’s claims seem to suggest they are ready to make the final push and get a deal over the line, while Napoli seem keen for it to happen so they can get on with their own business.
Of course, that does not mean they’re suddenly going to pay Aurelio de Laurentiis’ asking price, with that likely to remain a sticking point unless the two clubs can find some sort of compromise in the midst of their negotiations.
