Liverpool 'in pole position' to sign Koulibaly

Liverpool are in 'pole position' to sign Napoli centre-half Kalidou Koulibaly if reports from Le 10 Sport are to be believed.

The outlet claims that PSG have pulled out of the race, leaving the Reds as favourites to sign him.

The Senegal international looks set to finally leave Naples once the transfer window opens.

This is despite the coronavirus pandemic impacting the transfer market, with many clubs in financial disarray.

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The 28-year-old is arguably the second-best centre-back in world football, after Virgil van Dijk.

Pairing the two together would make Liverpool impermeable. Add Alisson behind them, plus Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson and the Reds would undisputedly have the world's best back five.

Koulibaly can do it all.

Despite having a slightly off season, he is still immense at numerous aspects of the game. In fact, Napoli's off-the-field dramas have undoubtedly played a big part of his drop in form. It is without a doubt that he has some fantastic years left in the tank.

Koulibaly is 6-foot-2 and is by no means lanky. He is a real powerhouse of a defender, using his physicality to win the ball rather than diving into tackles.

Koulibaly pairs this power with outstanding speed. This is perfect for Liverpool's high-line system as, similar to Van Dijk, he has the pace to chase any balls in behind.

Possibly the greatest aspect of his game is his passing ability.

He is one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in Europe and is more than capable of a line-breaking pass. This is expected of a player who played under Maurizio Sarri.

So in terms of the player himself, there is no doubting his ability. Simply put, Kalidou Koulibaly is a truly elite defender.

An unnecessary signing?

Despite Koulibaly's obvious class, it does not feel very much like a Jurgen Klopp signing.

The French-born player will be 29 in June. Klopp and Michael Edwards famously target younger players. This is especially the case when such big money is involved.

While there have been rumours of a potential player-plus-cash deal involving Dejan Lovren, spending £60 million-plus on a player seems inconceivable at this moment in time.

There is also the question of whether Liverpool even need a centre-back. They already have the best defence in England.

Joe Gomez is only 22. Say this quietly, but he may be England's best defender.

He has been nothing short of exceptional for the last two seasons. He is quickly becoming world class in his own right.

Why would Liverpool want to halt this sensational progress?

Yes, he has had his injury troubles. But the reality is that the amount of money Koulibaly would cost is just not worth it when there is such a quality defender already at the club.

Nonetheless, if a miracle does happen and Liverpool do decide to go all-in on Kalidou Koulibaly, it can only mean more good times ahead.