Everton to meet Napoli to discuss Koulibaly transfer

Napoli and Everton will meet next week to discuss the potential transfer of Kalidou Koulibaly to Goodison Park, according to reports in Italy.

Transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio claims that the two clubs are set to meet next week after the Toffees have shown a strong desire to acquire the Senegalese defender.

Napoli are thought to be determined to keep hold of their star centre-back, but a bid of around €45 million could soften their stance, and see Koulibaly make the shock move to Merseyside.

Chelsea are also believed to be extremely keen on Koulibaly, with new manager Antonio Conte having earmarked the Napoli man as a desirable signing to strenghthen his defence, and a more attainable option than their other main target, Juventus' Leonardo Bonucci.

Everton are benefitting from new financial backing this summer, due to Iranian billionaire Farhad Moshiri taking a 49 per cent stake in the club.

The Toffees have already been linked to big money moves for Zenit St. Petersburg midfielder Axel Witsel and Manchester United playmaker Juan Mata.

If Everton were to beat Chelsea to the capture of Koulibaly, it would represent a huge statement of intent from the Merseysiders and their new manager Ronald Koeman.

It would also, however, bring further questionmarks over the future of England defender John Stones, with Manchester City said to be preparing a move for the 21-year-old defender.