Transfer Story:
Jose Mourinho’s recent criticism of Luke Shaw and the sheer mediocrity of Matteo Darmian means that Manchester United will surely go after a couple of fullbacks in the transfer window to provide better competition in that position. Even if Shaw stays at Old Trafford, it is necessary to bring in a fullback as Daley Blind might leave the club and Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young are well into their 30s. Apparently, the Mirror believes that United might proceed to sign AS Monaco fullback Djibril Sidibe. The French club have already lost a host of their stars last summer and might be well on course to lose another youngster to Manchester United.
Sidibe: Young and versatile
Djibril Sidibe is capable enough to play in both fullback positions, and that would be extremely enticing for Jose Mourinho. United have lacked fullbacks who can play on either wing and hence this might be an incentive of signing Sidibe. The player possesses good pace and is excellent going forward. He links up well with the other attackers and often makes accurate passes into the box. His defensive positioning provides him an extra edge over other attacking fullbacks, though.
For example, Shaw has been criticized for over-committing at times but that is not the case with Sidibe. The Frenchman maintains a proper balance between his defensive and offensive duties but still provides more service to his forwards than most fullbacks do. In 24 appearances in the league this season, Sidibe has scored twice and has assisted six times too. In total, he has created 31 goal-scoring chances for his teammates from the flanks.
He has been played in advanced positions at times owing to the sheer attacking impetus that he provides on the field. Mourinho likes his fullbacks to stretch forward and demands them to provide space to the midfielders at the centre of the park with their movement on the flanks. He has won 47% of his defensive duels, something that he can gradually improve with time.
Sidibe is very strong in the air, and hence his aerial prowess comes into play when the team tends to go direct in their approach. He has won 65% of his aerial duels in those 24 matches, and that adds an extra dimension to his game. The lad possesses a strong physique and hence wouldn’t face many problems in adjusting to the harsh physicality of the Premier League.
Should Manchester United make a move?
Absolutely. Djibril Sidibe looks like an exciting, young, talented prospect and would provide more depth in defence for United. Antonio Valencia has guarded his flank well in recent times, but he would surely relish the prospect of having a younger compatriot to share the workload with. Manchester United should try their best to get this deal done, as other clubs might keep an eye on Sidibe too.
Stats Courtesy: Squawka