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Report: Benitez has asked Everton to prioritise move for Koulibaly amid concerns; could cost £35m

Rafa Benitez has asked Marcel Brands to target Kalidou Koulibaly as the new Everton boss looks to strengthen his defence, .

The Spaniard reportedly has some concerns about the Toffees backline following his controversial appointment.

Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images
Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images

And it appears that he wants to bring in a familiar face. Benitez signed Koulibaly while at Napoli in 2014.

, Benitez has asked the Everton hierarchy to prioritise a move for the 30-year-old.

Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images
Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images

Interestingly, the report claims Napoli could demand just £35 million for the Senegal international. It is noted that they previously valued the defender at around £100 million.

Coup for Benitez and Everton if they can land Koulibaly – even if he is no longer at his peak

Koulibaly has long been considered one of the best defenders playing in Europe. He has now made well over 200 Serie A appearances for Napoli.

He is perhaps not at the very top of his game at this stage of his career. However, he remains an outstanding centre-back.

So paying £35 million could prove to be a masterstroke.

And they may perhaps fancy their chances of paying even less. . So Napoli are not under huge pressure to sell.

However, they will also be aware that his value will only drop from here – particularly if he does not sign a fresh deal.