Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly signs for Al-Hilal from Chelsea in a €25 million deal. Koulibaly signed for Chelsea from Napoli last summer on a four-year-deal.
The centre-back only made 23 appearances during the 2022-23 season. The 32-year-old’s former teammate N’Golo Kante, has also joined Al-Hilal, and Edouard Mendy is close to joining Al-Ahli.
The Senegalese defender arrived from Napoli with European and international experience after helping the Italian side win the Italian Cup in 2020. He also helped Senegal in winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022.
The Senegalese defender thanks Chelsea fans on Twitter
Koulibaly thanked Chelsea fans on Twitter, he said, “From my first game to my last, it was an honour to wear this badge. Last season wasn’t the one we wanted, but I want to thank the fans and everyone at the club for your support.”
His arrival arrival in Saudi Arabia follows a recent trend from European clubs. It started with Cristiano Ronaldo’s switch from Manchester United to Al-Nassr in January.
Kalidou Koulibaly signs for Al-Hilal on three-year deal
The Blues have already let four players join the Saudi Pro League, with Hakim Ziyech also linked with a move.
Koulibaly will link up with ex-Wolves star Ruben Neves at Al-Hilal and look to challenge the likes of Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title next season.
Chelsea clear-out begins at full-pace after Pochettino’s arrival
Chelsea are clearing out their squad, so that they can reshape the squad again under their new manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Out-of-favor midfielder Kai Havertz is on the verge of joining Arsenal for £65 million. Mateo Kovacic is also joining Manchester City for £30 million.
Their homegrown talent Mason Mount will also leave the club as he is not willing to extend his contract. Talks with Manchester United are ongoing for the English midfielder.
However, the club has also signed France forward Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig. Moreover, Villarreal’s Senegal striker Nicolas Jackson will also sign for the Blues.
