Barcelona Express Interest In French International Defender: Can He Solve Xavi’s Problems?

According to Sport, Barcelona are in the market for Djibril Sidibe. Despite the addition of Dani Alves, the Spanish giants are looking for further reinforcements in the right-back department. While their primary target is Ajax’s Noussair Mazraoui, Sidibe has been identified as one of the two alternatives due to his contract situation with Monaco.

Djibril Sidibe: A Proven Defender In Ligue 1

Formerly of Troyes, Djibril Sidibe is among the most established right-backs in Ligue 1 right now having enjoyed years of success at the top level. While he first broke into the scene with LOSC Lille during the 2012/13 campaign, he made his big breakthrough with his performances at AS Monaco, under the leadership of Leonardo Jardim.

Especially during the 2016/17 campaign, Sidibe helped Monaco win the Ligue 1 while also performing well in the Champions League. His impressive breakout at ASM even saw him get selected for France’s World Cup squad in 2018. Although he didn’t play a vital role, the right-back was later crowned world champions with France.

Sidibe then moved on to Everton in 2019 in a long-loan deal. He featured in 25 league matches for the Toffees, playing the role of a rotation player at Goodison Park. The Frenchman eventually returned to Monaco last summer and has made a total of 160 competitive appearances for the club in all competitions.

Despite not being gifted with technical ability, Sidibe has been highly rated due to the physicality he offers in defence as well as his organisation and discipline at the back. However, the defender could soon be on the verge of leaving Monaco, with his current contract expiring at the end of the season.

A Perfect Option For Barcelona?

Barcelona‘s pursuit of Djibril Sidibe might be a bit puzzling, especially after the acquisition of Dani Alves. But in hindsight, it does make a world of sense for the Catalans.

Alves doesn’t join the club until January, with his contract only valid till the end of the season. At the age of 38, the Brazilian isn’t expected to offer too much quality either while Sergino Dest has struggled with fitness issues.

It has forced new coach Xavi to find an alternative at right-back and someone like Sidibe could be an ideal solution. As mentioned earlier, the Frenchman brings the physical presence that is lacking in this current Barca defence.

More importantly, the 29-year-old offers a wealth of experience at the highest level of football. He can compete with Alves, Dest and Oscar Mingueza for a place in the first-team, potentially pushing them to step up their game even more. And for a free transfer, Sidibe could indeed be a massive bargain for Barca next season.