France international Djibril Sidibe has recently admitted that he turned down a move to Arsenal over the summer because he feared he would not play regularly under Arsene Wenger – but has targeted a move to England next season.
The Gunners made a late bid for the 24-year-old, but the French right-back opted to join Monaco from Lille instead:
‘I was on the brink (of signing for Monaco) and (Arsenal) gave me a headache by making a bid at the last moment.
‘After reflecting on it, I was not certain my playing time would be guaranteed.
‘I chose to stay in Ligue 1 and then leave for the Premier League next year because it is a competition that greatly appeals to me.’
Many would brandish the defender a bottler because of his decision to stay in Ligue 1, but perhaps his he made the right call not joining Arsenal.
Hector Bellerin has established himself as the number one right-back at Arsenal and has made Mathieu Debuchy a forgotten man at the Emirates. However, the Gunners could do with some reinforcements in this position should Bellerin pick up a long-term injury or even leave the club in the near future.
Having watched Sidibe a couple of times this season, the Frenchman would be a welcomed addition to the squad and offer competition to Bellerin. If the player is interested in a move to England, then Arsenal may re-ignite their interest in him next summer.
Sidibe has since started five of Monaco’s eight Ligue 1 appearances this season, as well as featuring five times in the Champions League so far.
