Werder Bremen confirm interest in German-Ivorian defender Karim Coulibaly

Werder Bremen have confirmed that rising star Karim Coulibaly is attracting significant attention from multiple clubs, as speculation continues to build around the teenager’s future.

The 18-year-old centre-back, born in Germany and of Ivorian descent, has been the subject of increasing transfer rumours in recent weeks, following his emergence as a regular starter in the Bundesliga.

Sporting director Clemens Fritz addressed the situation publicly, acknowledging the growing interest while stressing the club’s immediate priorities.

“We’re talking about an 18-year-old left-footed centre-back who’s a regular starter in the Bundesliga. That there’s interest isn’t a big surprise. Nevertheless, it’s important for us to concentrate on the here and now in the relegation battle,” he said on SPORT1’s Doppelpass programme.

Fritz also praised the defender’s mentality and focus, highlighting his importance to the team during a crucial stage of the season.

“He is very clear, very concentrated, very focused. That’s what we need. We’ll have to see what happens in the summer,” he added.

Reports suggest that Werder Bremen could be willing to part ways with Coulibaly for a fee in the region of €40 to €45 million.