Saudi Arabia club Al Hilal are on the verge of signing Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly.
That is according to well-respected journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Kalidou Koulibaly, who only joined Chelsea last summer from Napoli, could be heading for the Stamford Bridge exit doors after just one year at the club.
The 32-year-old centre-back had a tough debut season in English football last year, so he could become the latest high-profile footballer to join the Saudi Arabian division.
Romano has reported on Twitter this morning that Koulibaly is set to complete a move to Al Hilal.
It is understood that the Senegal international has agreed personal terms for a three-year deal, with the transfer now imminent.
“Understand Al Hilal are now closing in on Kalidou Koulibaly deal, here we go!” Romano said.
“Verbal agreement reached with Chelsea.
“Personal terms also agreed on a three year contract — he’ll join Ruben Neves.
“Contracts now being checked… and then signed.”
Koulibaly will go down as such a disappointing Blues signing if he’s played his last game for the club.
Most people expected the ‘physical’ defender to be a success when he arrived in the Premier League, which was totally justified after some sensatioal years at Napoli. But last season his form was so inconsistent in Chelsea colours.
Journalist Rob Pratley explained on Twitter last month that Mauricio Pochettino doesn’t have Koulibaly in his plans for the new season. The incoming Chelsea head coach is looking to invest in the club’s younger and more dynamic centre-halves.
Therefore, it makes sense for Koulibaly to be exiting West London.
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