Manchester United will face competition from Tottenham for the signing of Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo, with Tottenham likely to enter the market.
Todibo is Man United’s priority for the January transfer window, according to FootballTransfers, as they seek options to reinforce their defense, particularly in light of Raphael Varane’s spat with manager Erik ten Hag.
After months of outstanding performances in Ligue 1, the 23-year-old is likely to command a transfer cost in the region of €50 million, and the Red Devils would not have expected a free run at the defender.
According to the Standard, Tottenham have joined the battle to sign Todibo, with Ange Postcoglou’s side also looking to strengthen their defensive options during the mid-season transfer window.
Spurs’ need for more backup was highlighted by their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the weekend, with full-backs Ben Davies and Emerson Royal placed in the middle of defense due to Micky van de Ven’s injury and Cristian Romero’s suspension.
Spurs are also interested in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, giving them a central defensive shortlist identical to Manchester United’s.
The Old Trafford club holds the aces in this trade when it comes to the Frenchman, whose contract expires in 2027.
Given that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is also the owner of Nice, Ten Hag’s side will have a clear advantage over Spurs in the hunt for Todibo if a minority buyout of Manchester United is completed. Ratcliffe will not willingly help a competitor at the detriment of his own club.
Meanwhile, Todibo is not looking to leave the Allianz Rivera in January, with Nice competing with PSG for first place in Ligue 1 because to their solid defense.
Francesco Farioli has constructed a sturdy club focused on togetherness, and while it is not a style that would appeal to Manchester United fans, it means they have not trailed for a single minute of competitive football this season and are still unbeaten with nearly half of the Ligue 1 season remaining.
Man United may be able to persuade the former Barcelona star to depart, but Tottenham may find it more difficult.