Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has told CalcioNapoli24.it that he believes Napoli players Kalidou Koulibaly and Dries Mertens have what it takes to make it in the Premier League, although he says he expects both players to remain in Italy.
The Magpies boss signed Koulibaly from Racing Genk for £6.5million in 2014, while Mertens was his first signing for the club when the Belgian international signed for €9.5million from PSV Eindhoven in 2013. Benitez says both players have the quality and footballing intelligence to excel in England:
“They are players of very good technical and tactical level. Physically some have a better chance than others, but in football it’s not only about the physicality: it is about the football intelligence and technique. We’re talking about two players who are of a good standard and can play anywhere, but I think they are happy in Naples.”
Koulibaly was reportedly the subject of a €55m bid from Chelsea last summer but the Italian side turned down the offer. Mertens meanwhile is believed to be close to agreeing a new contract to stay at the San Paolo. The 30 year old winger was linked with a move to the North East earlier in the season to join up with his former Napoli boss, but it seems likely he will extend his stay in Serie A.
