Defensive reinforcement: Manchester United eyes Jean-Clair Todibo, but ‘Newcastle rule’ looms large

Manchester United is considering acquiring Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice, owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, to strengthen their defense. Despite an unsuccessful attempt to sign Todibo in the summer, the Red Devils are now considering the possibility of a permanent transfer. Ratcliffe's potential investment could facilitate the transfer, but the Premier League's ban on loans between clubs under the same ownership group could impact Newcastle's pursuit of Ruben Neves.

Zor

November 14, 2023

Manchester United is exploring the prospect of securing the services of former Barcelona star Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice, owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The Red Devils, under the management of Erik ten Hag, are keen on reinforcing their defense with a right-sided center-back in the January transfer window. While an attempt to sign Todibo was made in the summer, the 23-year-old opted to stay at Nice, expressing a desire to avoid making the wrong choice.

With injuries affecting their defensive lineup, United is revisiting the idea of bringing Todibo on board. The potential investment by Ratcliffe, set to acquire a 25% stake in the club, could facilitate the transfer, likely to be permanent. However, the Premier League’s push to ban loans between clubs under the same ownership group might pose a challenge, impacting Newcastle’s pursuit of Al-Hilal’s Ruben Neves.

Todibo, having earned one cap for France, has become a pivotal figure in Nice’s defense. As January planning unfolds amid Ratcliffe’s anticipated investment, Todibo emerges as a prominent defensive target for United, with the former Barcelona man having made 114 appearances for Nice since his loan move in February 2021.

Tap to view some defensive skills of Jean-Clair Todibo.