Transfer Rumors: Koulibaly Staying Level-Headed, Aware Of Interest Amid Liverpool Links

Kalidou Koulibaly stayed at SSC Napoli despite the mad rush to get his services in the last transfer window. Nothing came out of that, with Manchester United and Liverpool falling short in their pursuit. However, there is a chance that interest will be piqued anew – particularly the Reds'.

After Napoli's 1-0 Europa League victory over Real Sociedad Thursday, Koulibaly admitted that there is still interest in him, though he did not mention which clubs have not given up their pursuit.

But he maintained that he loves where he is right now and will continue to play his best each time he is on the field. The Senegal defender is contracted with the Serie A team until 2023.

"I love Naples and Naples loves me, that's the most important thing," Koulibaly told Sky Sports. "I play at my level and I help this team and these people because I want to give something back to them then we'll see what happens."

Between the Red Devils and Liverpool, the latter is said to be the club that has rekindled its interest in the 29-year-old player, Calciomercato reported. And that could go down this January when the next transfer window opens. But for Liverpool to pluck Koulibaly from Gli Azzurri, it would take roughly £70 million ($90 million) to make it happen.

Given the current situation brought about by the pandemic, luring in Koulibaly to Anfield Stadium will depend on whether or not the Reds are willing to spend generously. However, the injury of Virgil van Dijk could force them to push for a deal.

Van Dijk suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury following a tackle from Jordan Pickford of Everton FC. He is expected to be out for a while.

Pickford has since apologized for the incident, claiming it was not premeditated, BBC reported.

Aside from Van Dijk, Fabinho and Joel Matip also remain sidelined, though they may return at any time. But clearly, the defensive side of Liverpool needs help.

Hence, a Koulibaly move in January could happen, with teams likely to mix it up and target needed players anew. But for now, the Senegal defender wants to focus on the task at hand. He returns to action this Sunday when Napoli hosts Sassuolo.