Monaco defender can join a top European club, says vice-president

Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev believes Djibril Sidibe has vindicated his decision to turn down Arsenal and is now performing at a level good enough to play for one of Europe’s biggest sides.

Sidibe was approached by Arsenal last summer only to turn Arsene Wenger’s side down and his form for Monaco, who are top of Ligue 1 and in the Champions League quarter-finals, has even forced his way into Didier Deschamps’ thoughts for the France national team.

The 24-year-old is expected to be one of several Monaco players that attract interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs and Vasilyev has only added to the speculation but praising the full-back’s performances this season.

“Djibril Sidibe preferred Monaco to Arsenal, now he is in the French national team, and he can join the top European clubs. He deserves it,” Monaco’s vice-president told RMC, via The Daily Mail.

Sidibe only joined Monaco from Lille at the start of the season but has fitted in seamlessly for Leonardo Jardim’s side, starting 23 of their 30 league games this season.

The France international has shown his qualities on both sides of defence but his natural position is right-back. From defence, Sidibe has scored or assisted an impressive tally of six goals in Ligue 1 this season.

For more stats on Djibril Sidibe, click here to visit his WhoScored player page