Koulibaly is one of a number of experienced, top-level centre-backs United were linked with ahead of the January window opening.
And Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has even claimed Manchester United lodged a whopping £95m bid for the Senegal international in December.
“[Jose] Mourinho wanted him, we rejected £95m,” De Laurentiis said. “But now it’s impossible that he leaves Napoli.”
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De Laurentiis has since suggested Napoli could be swayed by another world record offer at the end of the season.
“We won’t sell Koulibaly in January,” De Laurentiis added. “But the time will come where we can’t refuse other indecent offers.
“We always invest, but with criteria. In Italy there are two or three clubs with balanced books, and I’m the only one who doesn’t have any bank debt.”
Koulibaly has now hinted he will arrive at United sooner rather than later with a comment which has sent fans wild.
Paul Pogba posted a video message on Instagram hailing United’s win over Bournemouth on Sunday, while reaching out to Koulibaly having supported the defender following the racial abuse he suffered as Napoli faced Inter Milan last week.
“Well done guys beautiful way to finish the year + honour handband for @kkoulibaly26. 2019 say NO to racism,” Pogba wrote.
Koulibaly’s responded to Pogba with a comment which indicates a big-money move might be on the cards.
“Thank you my bro for the supporting! Congratulation for the goals and the victory! See you soon bro,” Koulibaly wrote, followed by praying and fist bump emojis.
Koulibaly’s reply prompted a flurry of comments from United fans who believe it is a sign he could be heading to Manchester.
“See you soon too @kkoulibaly26” wrote one supporter, as another added: “@kkoulibaly26 we are waiting for you bro.”
A third added: “@paulpogba thanks AgentP”, referencing the title Pogba gave himself after helping United sign Romelu Lukaku.
One fan simply posted: “Welcome to Manchester United” with a fifth saying: “It’s transfer season, we hope to see you soon in Manchester.”
Koulibaly is thought to be joined on United’s list of centre-back targets by Toby Alderweireld, Milan Skriniar and Eder Militao.
Whether United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward will sanction a deal in January remains to be seen.
United are in the midst of conducting a search for Jose Mourinho’s permanent successor having appointed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on an interim basis.
And they may refrain from spending to ensure they are not lumbered with any new signings their new manager does not want.
Next up for United, meanwhile, is Wednesday’s trip to St James’ Park to take on Newcastle.
