Arsenal have been linked with Monaco’s Djibril Sidibe so we thought we’d take a look at the player and see what Arsenal might be getting for their money if they do indeed make a move.

Sidibe arrived at AS Monaco just last summer from LOSC Lille, with the Gunners just missing out on the move as the player was looking for guaranteed playing time.

The French full-back clearly made a right choice as he made 47 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and making eight assists for Monaco.

Style of play

The 24-year-old is known as a solid full-back and is a very responsible player in the defensive phase. However, is biggest influence comes in the offensive phase when he gets the chance to push forward and offer himself as an additional option on the wing.

Sidibe often makes forward runs to overlap midfield and offers inviting crosses into the box. Although he’s often found deep inside the opposition’s half, he’s responsible enough to track back when his team losses possession and cover his position.

Strengths

Sidibe’s defensive contribution is a real stand-out of all of his abilities as the defender doesn’t let himself get caught out in a wide space and is determined to put the pressure on opposition as soon as the opportunity arises.

The Frenchman is very good at picking out passes, especially when crossing, as his balls often find their target in the penalty area. His dribbling abilities make him a hard player to defend against, and he often opens enough space for himself before laying off a pass to a teammate.

Another trait is shots from range and the 24-year-old has been took long-distance set-pieces for Monaco throughout the season.

Sidibe is equally adapted to play on both flanks in a full back position and can provide cover even further up the field if needed.

Weakness

The only weakness in his play is his ability to hold onto the ball.

On occasions where he doesn’t have enough space and is put under the pressure, Sidibe often losses possession as he doesn’t seem to have enough strength to get rid of defenders.

Other than that, there really aren’t any significant weaknesses in his abilities.

The Future

Djibril Sidibe has a contract with Monaco until 2021 but the player has already said he plans to use Monaco as a stepping stone in order to progress in his career.

The player openly admitted his intentions to play in the Premier League with Arsenal mentioned as his preferred team.

The full back wants to stabilise his progress and concentrate on playing at right-back, and that’s something that might prove problematic as Hector Bellerin has established himself as  first choice at Arsenal.

The only other option for Sidibe would be to play at left back but with the Sead Kolašinac already signed and Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs already at the club, there doesn’t seem to be room for him in the squad.