Manchester United has been notified by Nice that they will need to meet the asking price of £52m if they want to acquire the services of Jean-Clair Todibo.
The 23-year-old center-back had been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford during the previous summer transfer window, as speculation grew regarding a potential replacement for Harry Maguire.
Maguire, however, stayed put at Manchester United, reclaiming his spot in Erik ten Hag’s starting lineup before suffering a groin injury last month.
Despite Maguire’s potential return, it is believed that Manchester United will seek to bolster their defensive options ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, as Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans are set to become free agents in the summer.
Although discussions surrounding Todibo had quieted in recent weeks, with Benfica’s Antonio Silva emerging as the club’s primary defensive target, it appears that Manchester United is still interested in the Frenchman.
According to CaughtOffside, the Red Devils have remained in contact with Nice, expressing their continued interest in the talented center-back.
CaughtOffside’s report suggests that Nice has made it clear that they will not entertain any offers below £52m for Todibo’s services.
The figure represents a significant investment for Manchester United, but it remains to be seen if they will meet the asking price.
Tottenham Hotspur was previously linked with Todibo, but they have already secured the signing of Radu Dragusin from Genoa this month.
Chelsea, on the other hand, continues to monitor the situation closely, as they also aim to reinforce their defensive line, with veteran Thiago Silva potentially being replaced.
Todibo began his professional career at Toulouse before joining Barcelona in 2019. However, he struggled to establish himself at Camp Nou, making just five appearances for the club.
During his time at Barcelona, Todibo was loaned out to Schalke 04 and Benfica. He subsequently joined Nice on loan for the 2020-21 season before completing a permanent move to the French club.
Since then, Todibo has made 117 appearances for Les Aiglons, contributing two goals and one assist.
The potential transfer between Manchester United and Nice may be complicated due to the involvement of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS company with both clubs.
Nonetheless, Todibo has been in excellent form for Nice during the current Ligue 1 campaign, featuring in 14 matches and helping Francesco Farioli’s side secure their current second-place position in the table.
