Manchester United is reportedly on the verge of securing the services of Jean-Clair Todibo, a talented defender from Nice, in a €40m (£34m) deal.
This potential move comes after weeks of speculation linking the Frenchman to Old Trafford. Although talks had slowed down following the breakdown of Harry Maguire’s proposed transfer to West Ham United, Manchester United seems determined to push ahead with the signing.
According to L’Equipe, the negotiations for Todibo’s transfer are now progressing well, and it appears that the deal is within reach.
Under the management of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United is said to be ready to pay €40m (£34m) to secure the centre-back’s services before the summer transfer window closes.
Todibo, who started his career in Toulouse’s youth system before joining Barcelona in July 2019, struggled to establish himself at Camp Nou.
With limited opportunities, he made only five appearances in all competitions for the Catalan giants, spending loan spells at Schalke 04, Benfica, and Nice.
In June 2021, Todibo completed a permanent move to Nice. Since then, he has showcased his talent, making 104 appearances and scoring two goals for the club.
Although he played in a match against Lille on August 11, he was not involved in Nice’s recent game against Lorient.
Despite having a contract with Nice until June 2027, Todibo is now believed to be edging closer to joining Manchester United, leaving behind the Ligue 1 outfit.
While the prospect of Todibo’s arrival excites Manchester United fans, there is still speculation surrounding the future of Harry Maguire.
The 30-year-old defender was not included in the squad for the Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur due to a minor injury. However, rumors persist that there may still be a chance for Maguire to depart before the transfer window closes.
At present, Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are Manchester United’s preferred center-back choices, with Victor Lindelof also ahead of Maguire in the pecking order.
Furthermore, Jonny Evans has also been linked with a return to Old Trafford, as reports suggest that the Northern Ireland international is close to signing a one-year contract.
