All the latest on Manchester United making a potential move for Jean-Clair Todibo.
The news Manchester United will not take up the option to extend Raphael Varane’s contract indicates the club are looking at defensive changes ahead.
One player who has been linked since last summer is centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo, who remains under contract at French side Nice.
The former Barcelona defender is having a strong season, and there is interest remaining from Manchester United.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfer deals for January 2024, ins, outs, loan moves
Jean-Clair Todibo to Manchester United latest
Jean-Clair Todibo has been starring for a Nice side who are currently in second place in Ligue 1.
Footmercato report Manchester United have continued to send scouts to watch Todibo in recent weeks.
There is also interest from Chelsea, while Tottenham’s interest is not completely gone despite their advances for Genoa centre-back Radu Dragusin.
United are reportedly open to a move this January, although there is nothing firmly suggesting a bid is due, or even negotiations, for a player valued at around £40 million.
Ineos preference to wait
Manchester United’s new investors Ineos would essentially be negotiating with themselves, as they are in charge at Nice.
While this does certainly give United an advantage over Chelsea and Tottenham, it would mean any transfer between the clubs would be scrutinised to check it represents fair market value, and also viewed suspiciously by Nice fans.
Amid their best season since taking over at Nice, Ineos must be cautious not to disrupt that, when Todibo is part of a team on course for Champions League qualification and the financial benefits which come with that.
Nice fans are also worried about their team becoming a feeder club for Manchester United.
Footmercato report that Todibo to United is a ‘logical and coherent’ outcome for Ineos, but only next summer.
Todibo is enjoying his football at Nice, despite Fabrizio Romano saying the defender would be keen on a switch to Old Trafford.
What needs to happen for Ineos to make the move now
What Ineos need to do is to sign a very strong centre-back for Nice this January, who can instantly replace Todibo.
This would soften the blow of leaving the defender, keeping their strong season on track, and freeing up Todibo to move on.
From a United perspective, there should be incentive to do a deal now, so that Todibo is not swayed to stay and play Champions League football next summer, with only Europa League football or worse on offer at Old Trafford.
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