Despite making astronomical investments in the team, Manchester United continue to struggle with form this season too. Although the Red Devils are still decently poised to contest for the top four places and qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season, one could not help but notice the weaknesses still intact in United’s line-up.
Among the little improvements here and there, the need for a proper side-back is imminent for United next season. Mourinho currently has two right-backs in Antonio Valencia and Matteo Darmian. And although both are competent enough to take the pressure of the Premier league, it is the crisis at the other end, which has affected them.
United’s left-back Luke Shaw, is going through an injury crisis and Mourinho is being forced to play Matteo Darmian out of his position on the left-flank. The Italian hasn’t been very comfortable there and United have suffered defensively, as a result. 31-year-old Valencia has found it difficult to retain his pace on a consistent basis and Mourinho is looking to add more options in the full-back positions.
According to reports, United are eyeing a move for Arsenal target Djibril Sidibe. The 24-year-old opted to sign for Monaco last summer from Lille snubbing a move to London and rumours are that both United and Manchester City are in the race to sign the right-back. Mourinho is known to be an admirer of the French international and will make a move next summer.
Sidibe is equally adept on both the flanks and his offensive and defensive attributes make him a perfect fit for the United squad. He has started 18 games on the right and 12 on the left for Monaco this term where he has scored three goals and registered five assists.
A perfect right foot enables Sidibe to take some stunning long shots and his vision of the game also makes him a terrific defender. Having a player possessing such crossing and dribbling abilities could make Manchester United title contenders again. At 182cm, Sidibe is also quite domineering in the air and is a credible threat from set-pieces.
A youth product of French second-tier side ES Troyes AC, Sidibe had four impressive years in Lille when Arsenal had spotted the youngster before he moved to Monaco in 2016. Having the likes of Ibrahimovic and Rooney in the middle, his crosses would carry an added threat for any opponent. Although he has a contract with Lille until 2021, United could surely lure the full-back if they land a Champions League spot next season.
