Monaco have snapped up Lille full-back Djibril Sidibe, holding off a late challenge from Arsenal for the player's signature.
The principality outfit have been in talks with Lille over Sidibe and recently managed to agree a fee with their Ligue 1 rivals, after having an initial offer rejected.
Sidibe had been linked with Premier League pair Sunderland and Southampton, but it was news that Arsene Wenger was looking for Arsenal to hijack the deal which caused worries at Monaco and raised the prospect of a switch to the Emirates Stadium.
But the principality club held their nerve and have completed the signing of the 24-year-old.
Sidibe has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with Monaco, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2021.
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The defender told Monaco's official site: "It is with great pride that I have become involved with AS Monaco, a historic club in the French league.
"I am very happy to be here.
"I am focused on the sporting side and AS Monaco are the club at which I am looking to make a successful breakthrough."
Sidibe clocked up 37 appearances in Ligue 1 for Lille last season as he impressed with his consistency.
