Antonio Conte’s hopes of bringing Kalidou Koulibaly to Chelsea have been dashed after the defender signed a five-year contract at Napoli.
Advertisement
Napoli paid Belgian side Genk €6.5m for Koulibaly in the summer of 2014.
Koulibaly has made four league appearances so far this season, with his fine displays at the heart of the Napoli defence helping the club rise to the summit of Serie A. Having now cemented his long-term future, the defender will be hopeful the club can retain their top spot.
The 25-year-old’s new deal sees him extend his current contract to 2021.
“I am pleased to announce that Kalidou Koulibaly has renewed his contract with Napoli until the end of 2021”, De Laurentiis said via Twitter.
The Senegal global has now ended the speculation surrounding his future by renewing his contract with Napoli, who are top of Serie A after three wins from their opening four games this season.
Chelsea target Kalidou Koulibaly has penned a new deal at Napoli.
Last season, the Senegal global became one of the most acclaimed central defenders in Europe, making 42 appearances for the Serie A club past year.
Napoli travel to Genoa in Serie A on Wednesday night.
Advertisement
The Napoli chief said in September they turned down a £42m offer for Koulibaly, despite his probable absence for the African Nation’s Cup in the New Year.
