Leicester City Football Club's handling of French-born defender Woyo Coulibaly is beginning to feel like a lost episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm. It's the footballing equivalent of Larry David obsessing over an acquisition, a series of awkward misunderstandings and stubborn refusals that leave everyone involved wondering how a simple situation became so needlessly complicated.
Despite a starring turn at the recent Africa Cup of Nations (in spite of a dodgy red card later on), the Mali international appears to have no future at King Power Stadium. The Foxes have, questionably, even looked to cut ties with a player they never quite figured out how to use.
When considering Leicester's other options in the 26-year-old's role, the decision to disregard is astounding. It is clear that Larry would argue Luke Thomas is still socially distancing from his opponent!
Underutilised at Leicester City
Coulibaly was once viewed as a savvy acquisition from Parma: a versatile defender capable of steadying a backline and supplying attacking threat. Yet under various LCFC coaching regimes, he has been treated with a level of suspicion usually reserved for a guest who double-dips their chips at a party and goes over their allotment.
Returning to LE2 for the current run-in seemed the logical, 'pretty, pretty good' move to this outlet. The full back's energy and AFCON-honed sharpness would have been invaluable for a squad looking to retain its standing.
Instead, Leicester appear set to relinquish him for a low fee: a move that feels like a self-inflicted Larry-esque transfer market faux pas. ​The irony is thick: while Leicester prepare for a cut-price exit, the rest of Europe is waking up to the 'baller' in their midst.
What's next
Coulibaly's stock rose significantly in January, and the City hierarchy now find themselves in an unnecessary negotiation. Although, the organisation certainly requires funds and less outlay on the books. ​Teams across the continent are reportedly circling. Real Sociedad, Napoli and Wolfsburg are all reportedly keeping a watchful eye on the 26-year-old.
"Coulibaly has no future at Leicester City even though he has a contract with them until 2029. This should certainly please Sassuolo, who have started negotiations with the Championship side.Sport Witness
The outlet further add the Italian club have already prepared an offer to buy him from Leicester City, without mentioning a figure.
His performances for Mali at AFCON resulted in Napoli, VfL Wolfsburg, Real Sociedad and Marseille contacting his agent."
Most fascinatingly, Sassuolo (who previously seemed ready to terminate terms loanee's tenure early due to a perceived 'lack of trust') have performed a dramatic U-turn. Impressed by his form, black and greens gaffer Fabio Grosso is now reportedly pushing the Italian club to secure Coulibaly on a permanent deal.