Ramos' departure, another step for Koulibaly

The "Ramos Bomb", like any earthquake, can have aftershocks. And above all, many consequences. If he ends up leaving the team which has been his home for many years, Madrid's search for a replacement would have to kick in. 

Finding a replacement for a player like Ramos, who is a captain, an unexpected goalscorer, an expert on saving his team, and one of the best in the world at his post shouldn't be easy. And failing to do so could become a major problem on and off the pitch.

This is where Koulibaly comes in. The Naples defender has moved up the ranks in the list of priorities as the 'Ramos case' progresses. So much so that, according to 'Il Corriere dello Sport', De Laurentiis has already said "no" to the 90 million offer by Real Madrid for the Senegalese.

While he is waiting to be called up by his team, the Africa Cup would be a double-edged sword for the Madrid giants. The tournament could consecrate him and convince everyone of his signing, but this would be more expensive if he plays an important role in the tournament, which will be held in Egypt from 21 June to 19 July.

Koulibaly's signing would not happen if, as Florentino wants, Ramos stays at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Napoli player had not long ago been the perfect replacement for Varane, but the Frenchman's contract renewal, together with Ramos' continuity if it occurs, would close the doors for the Senegalese. 

But if the captain insists on finishing his time at Madrid, Koulibaly could be about to break a record: that of the world's most expensive defender. Van Dijk cost Liverpool just under 85 million and the Napoli defender doesn't seem to be going for much less... 

Koulibaly, 27, has played 48 games this season, scoring two goals, giving two assists and leading the Italian runners-up's defence. In addition, he has been in a hypothetical replacement for Ramos since day one of the season.