Manchester United handed Jean-Clair Todibo boost as Nice prepare for 2024 departure
Nice have informed centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo that they are prepared to sell him in 2024, 90min understands, but will try and retain the Frenchman until the end of the season if their good form continues.
Todibo has blossomed into one of France’s top centre-backs after joining from Barcelona in 2021 and a number of clubs across Europe have been alerted to the 23-year-old’s outstanding form.
Manchester United were tracking Todibo during the summer and had his name on a shortlist of potential replacements for Harry Maguire, but the collapse of the latter’s proposed £30m move to West Ham United ultimately put a halt to proceedings.
The interest from Old Trafford remains, however, and 90min understands that Nice are prepared to part ways with Todibo in 2024 after accepting the former Barcelona defender has earned himself a lucrative move.
A January transfer has not currently been ruled out but much will depend on Nice’s position in Ligue 1. Francesco Farioli’s side have been outstanding so far this season and sit top of the standings, having conceded just four goals in ten games, and are Ligue 1’s only remaining unbeaten team.
Should Nice remain in contention for at least a Champions League spot by the time January arrives, they will urge Todibo to see out the season in France.
Nice are currently owned by INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is seeking to complete a minority takeover of United in the coming months.
While Ratcliffe’s involvement could provide a boost for United in their pursuit of Todibo, 90min understands there are a number of sides monitoring the centre-back’s situation.
Indeed, Premier League rivals Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle United have also sent scouts to follow Todibo this season, while Bundesliga trio Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also understood to be interested.
In Italy, there is also interest in Todibo’s services from AC Milan and Atalanta.
Todibo remains under contract with Nice until 2027, but while the French side are under no pressure to part ways with the defender, there is an acceptance that 2024 represents the best time to grant Todibo his big move overseas and cash in on his rising stock.
