Manchester United identify Kalidou Koulibaly as their primary transfer target - report

Kalidou Koulibaly Napoli

Koulibaly is understood to be a long-term target of Manchester United and they're still keen on bringing him in, according to the Mirror.

The Senegalese defender has attracted attention from all across Europe with his impressive displays for Napoli in recent years. 

But the price-tag that the Serie A side has placed on Koulibaly has deterred some suitors.

Napoli are understood to want around £90m for their prized asset.

United were believed to prioritise the signing of Harry Maguire last summer, which was a deal done for £80m.

But now United are reportedly ready to dig deep into their pockets once again, this time for Koulibaly.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is thought to be convinced that the 28-year-old would be the perfect partner for Maguire in the heart of United's defence.

The Red Devils have apparently been made aware that Koulibaly is open to a move to England.

Solskjaer's determination to bring the defender to the club is such that he has reportedly encouraged the board to make him the highest-paid player at the club.

It's unclear what such a move would mean for United defender Viktor Lindelof, who has built a partnership with Maguire this season.

United drew 0-0 with Wolves at Old Trafford on Saturday, keeping them at arm's length from Chelsea in fourth place.

Solskjaer will be hoping his new signings, Bruno Fernandes and Odion Ighalo, make a difference in the latter half of the season.

READ MORE...

The Premier League relegation battle: who’s facing the drop?

Josh King interview: I dreamed of making it at Manchester United – and believe Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will take them back to the top