Roland Cutinho
French club OGC Nice hopes to keep Manchester United target Jean-Clair Todibo at the club beyond the summer
OGC Nice manager Francesco Farioli has expressed his desire to retain Jean-Clair Todibo but cannot rule out the possibility of a transfer before the upcoming Thursday deadline.
The French centre-back has been the subject of transfer rumours throughout the summer, with Manchester United being among the clubs interested in the 23-year-old defender.
This interest from United arose after West Ham had a bid accepted for Harry Maguire, leading Erik ten Hag’s search for defensive signings.
However, the transfer fell apart recently due to unknown reasons, as the player wanted to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford.
However, the links with Todibo are still in the air, and it has been suggested by L’Equipe (h/t the Daily Mail) that a move is nearing completion.
United’s interest presents a challenge for Nice in retaining the defender until the transfer deadline at 11 p.m. on Thursday.
While the French club’s manager, Farioli, remains optimistic, he cannot give any guarantees at this moment in the transfer window.
As quoted by the Sun, the manager said:
“These rumours have existed since the start, so we’ve developed antibodies against them – be it the team or myself. There are a few days left – we’ll see.”
“There is a chance that he stays, and I would be happy because he’s a quality player and he would be very hard to replace. I hope the rumours stay rumours.”
Todibo was on the list of central defenders eyed by Ten Hag in case Maguire left, but it now seems the English defender is staying put to compete for his place.
The Red Devils have more pressing concerns in the next six days, especially at left-back, as Luke Shaw is sidelined with a muscle injury.
Tyrell Malacia is also injured and hasn’t played since returning from his break, and Brandon Williams has gone on loan to Ipswich Town.
There could be some activity in midfield, especially since Mason Mount is injured, leaving United looking vulnerable in that area against both Wolves and Tottenham.
Ten Hag’s preferred starting defenders are Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, although the former has had injury issues. This could provide an opportunity for Todibo to establish himself in the lineup.
While signing the former Barcelona ace would be a smart move for Man United, the key question is whether the club has the financial resources to complete the deal in the remaining days of the transfer window.
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Due to Financial Fair Play concerns, Todibo’s transfer might hinge on the departure of Maguire. It could also rely on United generating sufficient funds through other player sales.
It remains to be seen if there could be any movements in the last few days of this crazy transfer window.
