"Agent Mendy and Jorgi", "Best defence in Europe" - Chelsea fans celebrate the signing of Kalidou Koulibaly

Chelsea fans have taken to Twitter to celebrate their second signing of the summer, defender Kalidou Koulibaly. The Blues have announced his acquisition from Serie A side Napoli on a four-year deal.

The Senegalese international has joined the Blues following the arrival of Raheem Sterling from Manchester City.

As per The Daily Mail, the 31-year-old has cost the West London club between £32 million (€38 million) and £33.7 million (€40 million). Chelsea fans are seemingly in the mood to celebrate following the club's announcement of the deal.

Koulibaly has established himself as one of the best central defenders in Europe since his move to Napoli from Belgian side Genk in 2014. With his enormous ability as well as experience, he would be a huge asset to Thomas Tuichel's side.

During his time at the Naples club, Koulibaly was named in the Serie A 'Team of the Year' on four occasions and was also named the 'Best Defender' in Italy in 2019.

Over the years, the Senegalese defender has attracted interest from a host of top clubs across Europe. However, his dream move away from the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium never materialized with Napoli holding firm to keep him for so long.

The new Chelsea defender is also quite experienced at the international level, having earned 62 caps for Senegal. He also led his country to the AFCON title earlier this year.

Chelsea could be far from done in bolstering their backline

It's hardly a surprise to see Chelsea bolstering their defensive ranks during the summer transfer window.

Thomas Tuchel's side were left short of both options and depth at the back following the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.

The centre-back duo left the Blues this summer for Real Madrid and Barcelona, respectively, both on free transfers.

Thiago Silva, Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr were the only senior options for Tuchel at the heart of the defense before signing Koulibaly.

Meanwhile, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that the London giants are also pursuing deals for Nathan Ake and Presnel Kimpembe.

If the Blues manage to sign both Ake and Kimpembe even after getting Koulibaly, Tuchel will have as many as six options at the heart of the defense.

About the author

Snehanjan is a journalist at Sportskeeda covering European football news. A hardcore Liverpool fan for over two decades, he has been covering the game since the past 8 years and always strives to give readers relevant, accurate and credible content.

Snehanjan developed an interest in football at a very young age, thanks to his father watching football on TV. His favorite player is club legend Steven Gerrard and his favorite manager is another legend in Jurgen Klopp. The ‘Miracle of Istanbul’ i.e., Liverpool beating AC Milan in the 2005 UEFA Champions League final left an indelible mark on him. He believes that Liverpool is a family unlike other top clubs, which sets them apart.

Snehanjan also follows Indian Super League and the I-League, although the latter is closer to his heart. If he could change a rule in football, it would be VAR not pointing out mistakes of on-field officials unless they are clear and obvious errors. Outside the football world, Snehanjan likes to explore the various genres of music and watch movies and shows on OTT. He’s also a car enthusiast and likes to follow the automobile world.

Know More