West Ham United are reportedly in the race for Djibril Sidibe.
According to France Football, West Ham United are in the race to sign Monaco full back Djibril Sidibe, alongside Premier League and London rivals Crystal Palace.
Sidibe, 26, has carved out a strong career in France’s top flight, turning out for Troyes, Lille and Monaco, whilst earning 18 caps for the French national team.
Sidibe won the World Cup with France last summer, and remained a regular in the Monaco side last season, picking up two assists in Ligue 1.
Now though, it’s claimed that Monaco will sell Sidibe for just €15million (£13.5million), and Premier League duo Palace and West Ham are thought to be keen.
That seems like a decent price for West Ham, especially as he can cover at left back too, but a move to sign a right back for a considerable fee will race question marks about Manuel Pellegrini’s current options.
Ryan Fredericks looks set to start the season as West Ham’s first-choice right back, but some lingering defensive concerns about the 26-year-old may well be forcing Pellegrini to consider Sidibe.
The other option is Pablo Zabaleta, who is now 34 and is out of contract next summer. West Ham may need to start planning for his eventual exit, and Sidibe may well be his true heir – even if he signs now.
In truth, it could be a reflection of both situations; that West Ham aren’t fully sold on Fredericks being their long-term right back after Zabaleta goes, and Sidibe would fit the bill better for Pellegrini and co.
Either way, a cut-price move for Sidibe raises questions about the current West Ham right backs, with both under threat if a bid takes place.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
