Arsenal looking to scupper Monaco’s move for 23-year-old Lille full-back

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing former France Under-21 international defender Djibril Sidibe this summer, according to L’Equipe (via the Daily Star).

The Premier League side, who finished second in the English top-flight standings last term behind eventual champions Leicester City, are understood to have entered the race to sign the Lille full-back ahead of the forthcoming 2016/17 campaign.

The 23-year-old, who featured once for France’s Under-21 squad back in 2013, scored six goals and provided three assists in 43 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 outfit last season.

Arsenal boss Wenger – Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

Sidibe, who was close to sealing a summer switch to French rivals Monaco earlier this week, has now emerged as a surprise defensive target for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

The full-back, who can operate on either flank, is under contract with Lille until 2019 after arriving from Troyes back in July 2012.

The report suggests that Arsenal’s interest has stalled Monaco’s move for Sidibe, with Wenger making him a priority transfer target.