DJETOU WOULD BE A HIT FOR COTTAGERS

MONACO powerhouse Martin Djetou will, according to recent media reports, sign for current Division One leaders Fulham in the summer in an £8 million deal, so Opta took a look at one of Le Championnat's most consistent performers, and anticipate great things from the Frenchman should he join The Cottagers in The Premiership next term.

Djetou first made his mark on the continent during Monaco's Champions League campaign in 1998-99. Operating in midfield, he used his fantastic physical attributes to outmuscle Manchester United's midfield quartet in the quarter finals of the competition, helping to steer the French giants through against the side who would win Europe's premier club competition a year later.

Watching Djetou's game, it is clear to see that he has lost none of his appetite for the physical side of the game. During Monaco's disappointing Champions League campaign this term, Djetou was the club's most prolific tackler, having gone in for the ball an average of 5.5 times per game. Furthermore, Djetou managed to win possession in 80% of his challenges, showing why he has been made club captain in recent years.

Indeed, such is Djetou's reputation in France that it would be a surprise if he were to leave the current champions to play for what is essentially an up-and-coming team in England. Djetou's performances in Europe have caused many top continental clubs to contact Monaco as to his availability, with AC Milan, Deportivo La Coruna and Arsenal all set to rival Fulham for his signature.

It is easy to see why Djetou is so highly sought after. He found a team-mate with 77% of his passes in Europe this season, and showed that he had a creative side as well as a destructive one by setting up one goal during his five games in the tournament.

The Cottagers will clearly need to strengthen their squad if, as expected, they earn promotion this term, and the signing of such an experienced campaigner would be a great coup for them.

Although a move to Fulham would mean no European action next year, it would allow Djetou to link up with former boss and French footballing legend Jean Tigana, as well as ex-team-mate John Collins - factors which might sway the French international The Cottagers' way.