As Europe’s giants turn their attentions to the largely untapped talent pool in Africa, the latest to capture the eyes of scouts is Mali under-20 international Baye Coulibaly. The central midfielder is being courted by a variety of top clubs.
Coulibaly, who signed for Croatian third-division side NK Kustosija in a move similar to ex-Barcelona defender Mikayil Faye, was originally linked with the Catalans first. Since, the names of Real Madrid and Arsenal have also been associated with the talented teenager.
Fermín López' new deal will be announced soon. @FabrizioRomano
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) October 22, 2024
Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Atletico Madrid have made the first move for Coulibaly though. Not wanting to be caught out, in what will no doubt be a fierce battle for his signature, they have reportedly made a bid for Coulibaly, who arrived for €500k from Etoiles Mande in the summer.
🇫🇷❤️ Bruno Génésio, Lille Coach: “There are very few players like Antoine Griezmann today; it’s rare to see. I adore him.”@marca pic.twitter.com/96MwEorThk
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) October 22, 2024
Given the size of the clubs involved, Atletico will no doubt be underdogs for his signature, but if that is the case, then moving first will increase their chances of success. Diego Simeone’s record with bringing young players through could work against them though. While Rodrigo Riquelme, Samuel Lino and Pablo Barrios have come through of late, Arthur Vermeeren ended up leaving after just six months at the club, unable to get on the same page as Simeone.
🚨🔴⚪️ EXCL: Atlético Madrid have sent formal bid to sign 2006 born talented midfielder Baye Coulibaly.
Negotiations started with NK Kustosija with more clubs also involved in the race. pic.twitter.com/BRp0Ov2KIN
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 21, 2024
