Rafa Benitez wants Kalidou Koulibaly at Everton

Everton boss Rafa Benitez wants to ensure Yerry Mina is replaced, and Kalidou Koulibaly is his preferred option, according to 90min.

The Spaniard brought the Napoli centre-back to the Serie A club during his time there, and has now asked the Toffees to sign him as he eyes a reunion at Goodison Park.

Napoli are open to selling the 30-year-old and are expected to listen to offers of around £35million.

Everton

Solid player, but a short-term option

Everton really need to strengthen at the back this summer if we are to seriously challenge for the top-six next season, and Koulibaly could be the perfect man for the job.

However, he is now steadily approaching the twilight of his career and could at best be a short-term option.

While central defenders tend to carry on playing much longer than their colleagues further afield, the Premier League is a different ballgame, and Koulibaly could start struggling with its demands after three or four seasons.

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Nevertheless, we have to agree that the Senegalese would help improve our squad massively given his quality and huge experience.

He is without a doubt one of the best defenders in a league famous for its brilliant defences, and Everton really need such a player.

While Koulibaly’s wages could be an issue, we can expect Toffees owner Farhad Moshiri to be willing to get a deal over the line if Benitez insists he wants him.

The likes of Mason Holgate and Ben Godfrey can learn a lot about the art of defending from the Serie A powerhouse, and it would be exciting if Everton can secure his signature.

In other Everton news, report has detailed why Benitez allowed Richarlison to play for Brazil at Olympics.

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