Newcastle United look set to step up their preparations for the summer window, and there are now serious talks going on about Werder Bremen star Karim Coulibaly.
BILD reports that Newcastle are moving forward for the 18-year-old, who has become one of the Bundesliga’s most sought-after talents.
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Coulibaly has been a bright spot in a tough season for Werder, who are still in the middle of an intense relegation battle with seven games left to play.
Despite the pressure, the teenager has developed into the club’s most valuable player, making his debut for Germany’s U21 national team and playing regularly in the Bundesliga this season. Now Europe’s biggest clubs are circling around.
€45 million price tag – Newcastle are early adopters
Werder expects to lose Karim Coulibaly in the summer, and the defender is priced at around €45 million. According to BILD, Newcastle and Chelsea have already had concrete talks about a potential transfer.
Both clubs are prepared to pay the price and see Coulibaly as a long-term mainstay in defence.
Napoli and Marseille are also pressing, while scouts from another Premier League club (not named) were present during Werder’s crucial 1-0 win over Wolfsburg. Burnley have also been interested since last summer.
Paris Saint-Germain have also made initial enquiries, but their interest is described as less concrete at this time. No formal talks have taken place.
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Relegation battle now – big sale in the summer
Karim Coulibaly is currently fully focused on helping Werder avoid relegation. His performances this season have strengthened his case for a starting spot in the crucial final phase. It could also attract even more suitors before the transfer window opens.
Newcastle United seem to want to push on. But they already have to contend with some of Europe’s biggest clubs for one of the continent’s fastest-rising defensive talents.
That battle is already underway, and it looks like the management at St. James’ Park is ready to hold on – no matter how fierce it gets.
