According to L’Equipe, as cited by GFFN, West Ham United are interested in the services of Djibril Sidibe this summer. It is believed that the Hammers have enquired about the availability of the AS Monaco defender, who had been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid last summer. Sidibe’s current contract at Monaco expires in 2022 and the French outfit value him at around €15 million excluding bonuses.
Sidibe’s spell at Monaco
Sidibe initially joined Monaco in a €15 million move from LOSC Lille. And the Frenchman quickly made an impact at the Stade Louis II, featuring in 29 league matches in his debut campaign. His contribution in the right-back slot was critical as Les Monégasques reached the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League during the 2016/17 season.
However, the 26-year-old has never been able to reach similar heights since. Even though he was included in the French squad that lifted the FIFA World Cup last summer, he was overlooked in favour of Benjamin Pavard in the right-back position.
At Monaco, the addition of Benjamin Henrichs surely played a key role in minimising Sidibe’s overall game time. But, it’s an unknown injury that kept him out on the sidelines for a short period last season. The Frenchman was also involved in just three goals last season as Monaco endured a turbulent campaign.
What can he offer to the table?
Sidibe is primarily known for his versatility on defence. Despite being labelled as a right-back, the ex-Troyes prodigy can also feature on the opposite flank. He can even operate in an advanced midfield role if needed. Aside from his versatility, the 26-year-old is a dogged defender and is capable of staying up to his marker throughout the entirety of the game.
Sidibe notably attempted 2.8 tackles per game last season with a success rate of 67%. What he lacks in his technicality, he more than makes up for it with his defensive work-ethic, which could make the Monaco star an ideal component in the West Ham defence.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Should West Ham make a move for Sidibe?
Sidibe could be a welcome addition to West Ham United, who are in dire need of reinforcements in the right-back department. Pablo Zabaleta is in the final phase of his career and will reportedly leave the Premier League at the end of next season. This leaves Ryan Fredericks as the only reliable option for Manuel Pellegrini in the said position.
Sidibe, in that regard, could provide the much-needed competition for the former Fulham star. He could, in fact, become the first-choice right-back for West Ham next season. The Frenchman’s defensive capabilities will offer more balance to the backline while his versatility will allow Pellegrini to become more flexible in regards to his tactical choices in the defensive department.
