But Pep Guardiola opted for Ruben Dias after refusing to respond to Napoli’s request for 72 million pounds for the defense.
City was a long-time enthusiast of the 29-year-old, who caught man’s attention.
And given his almost unlimited monetary power, Koulibaly would have made the decision to move to England.
Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport says Senegalese central defender “is sure” he would make the move.
City even claimed to have finished signing by putting Koulibaly on its online page instead of Dias last month.
In a message welcoming Dias to the club, a message in the back read: “Win a shirt signed by Kalidou Koulibaly. “
In the end, Koulibaly would have been content with In Serie A.
And developing interest in his call would have led his agent to meet with the head of Naples, Aurelio De Laurentiis, to discuss a contract extension.
Bosses hope to link him to a new long-term contract, knowing that he still has every single chance he can move on to the Premier League in the future.
In the end, the city amassed 8 million euros by completing the move of former Benfica, 23, Dias.
The Portuguese star said after his signing: “Dias said: “Having the opportunity to sign for a club like Manchester City is an opportunity for me and I can’t refuse.
“Her good luck speaks for herself.
“It’s been the dominant team in England for the last few years, attacking a football that, in my opinion, fits my own game. “
Dias has played a match for City, a 1–1 draw with Leeds before Saturday’s clash with Arsenal.
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