Kalidou Koulibaly, a defender for Chelsea, has reportedly been approached by Saudi Arabia about a possible transfer to Al-Ittihad and may leave after just one season, according to sources.
The center back moved to Stamford Bridge last summer in a £34 million transaction, but had a difficult first season as the team ended 12th in the Premier League.
Neither Koulibaly nor the Saudi Arabia Investment Fund were able to entice Graham Potter, Bruno Saltor, or Frank Lampard away from the sinking ship.
Sport Zone reports that following the offer from the Middle East, the 31-year-old Senegal international has been given a surprising escape route out of west London.
According to rumors, the PIF, who owns an 80% stake in Newcastle and has invested in a number of teams, wants to persuade Koulibaly to support the initiative.
Although the same source also notes that the player will have the option of joining another club in the nation if he so chooses, Al-Ittihad has been identified as a prospective destination.
Sport Zone think Koulibaly is willing to talk about a possible move.
Karim Benzema was persuaded to join Al-Ittihad this month after Real Madrid offered the prolific striker a whopping £342 million financial package. Koulibaly's Chelsea teammate N'Golo Kante is also expected to sign with the organization.
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo competes for Al Nassr in the same division.
Although it is believed that an agreement with Koulibaly is not near, his future at Chelsea may now be in doubt following the hiring of Mauricio Pochettino as manager.
Given the upheaval of his debut season in the top division and the fact that he is bound by a contract that expires in 2026, it is reported that he is drawn to the Saudi Arabian offer.
Koulibaly has been linked to Juventus, and given that he is rumored to be dissatisfied at Chelsea, he may possibly be part of the club's summer purge.
Last season, Koulibaly made 32 appearances across all competitions and scored two goals.
This week, Chelsea's bloated roster will be evaluated, and new manager Pochettino will decide which players may be let go during the current transfer window.
Romelu Lukaku, who is believed to be unhappy with the club's decision, will be informed by them that they are happy to work with him next season.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0