Fulham face threat from opposite side of London in attempt to reunite Marco Silva with Djibril Sidibe

Samuel Bannister 12 Jul 2022 1:25 PM

Djibril Sidibe could return to the Premier League after being targeted by Fulham and West Ham United on a free transfer, according to a report.

Sidibe’s contract with Monaco expired at the end of last month. As a result, he is now looking for a new club. With 173 appearances for Monaco behind him, as well as experiences with Troyes, Lille and Everton, he could be an interesting player for clubs to consider.

It was reported via French media earlier this month that one interested party could be Fulham. They are looking for a new right-back after having Neco Williams on loan from Liverpool last season; the Welshman has since made a permanent move to Nottingham Forest.

Fulham manager Marco Silva brought Sidibe to Everton in 2019 on a loan deal. However, the Portuguese manager did not last the season at Goodison Park. Sidibe was never signed permanently at the end of that campaign.

Yet he could soon get a second chance in the Premier League, either with Silva at Fulham or across London with West Ham.

According to Football Insider, both clubs are showing an interest in the Frenchman. He is hoping to head back to English football this summer, so either could grant him the opportunity.

For both clubs, the fact that Sidibe can play on either side of defence – even if he favours the right – is an appealing factor.

The report does not indicate that either club are in talks with Sidibe yet. However, he could be someone to keep an eye on as their pre-season preparations continue.

Fulham would make more sense than West Ham for Djibril Sidibe

Out of his two Premier League suitors, Fulham would appear to be the best option for Sidibe to choose if they do come forward.

After Williams’ exit, they have a vacancy in the right-back position. Their only other option there at present is Kenny Tete.

In contrast, West Ham can still call upon Vladimir Coufal and Ben Johnson – an experienced operator and a player with potential, respectively – in the territory Sidibe would like to operate in.

In addition, the presence of Silva in the Fulham dugout could be persuasive for the player, who will turn 30 before the new season gets underway.

He only managed to make 10 appearances under the former Hull City and Watford boss before his dismissal from Everton. Sidibe saw the season out under Duncan Ferguson and Carlo Ancelotti.

But he could now show Silva once again why he wanted to work with him in the first place.

That said, West Ham do have European football on offer next season. Even if he may not start as much for them, they would be an interesting destination for Sidibe to consider.

Fulham Djibril Sidibe