CONFIRMED: Everton sign right back Djibril Sidibé on loan

Everton have finally obtained the cover they needed at the right-back position, taking AS Monaco fullback Djibril Sidibé on loan for the season.

The 2018 World Cup winner, who was a former teammate of current left-back Lucas Digne (and former midfielder Idrissa Gueye) at LOSC Lille a few years ago, comes highly recommended and has a very affordable option-to-buy of €14 million (£12.9m) at the end of the season should Everton so choose.

With youngster Jonjoe Kenny out on loan for the season himself at Schalke 04, the Blues’ only cover at the position was Mason Holgate, as well as Cuco Martina, who has not been seen in preseason training so far.

Speaking after signing for the Blues, the 27-year-old Sidibé told the club’s official website:

“I was very happy to hear a historic and big club like Everton was thinking of signing me.

“It was very easy for me. I did not have to reflect for too long before making my decision to come here.

“Everton are recruiting with the intent to win trophies and play on the biggest stage.I am 100 per cent motivated and ready to help the Club achieve its goals and to achieve my own individual goals.”

In his comments welcoming the player to Everton, manager Marco Silva added:

“Djibril has fantastic experience, winning titles and playing many matches in a competitive league. He is a World Cup winner and he has the hunger to achieve much more in his career.

“It is important to have different options in each position and with Djibril and Seamus [Coleman] we now have two high-quality right-backs.

“Djibril has also shown to me he has a real desire to play for Everton and be part of the big things we are trying to create.”

With right back now sorted, Everton still need to obtain an experienced centrehalf (to replace Kurt Zouma) and a winger (to replace Ademola Lookman), and possibly add another midfielder.

Welcome to Everton, Djibril!