Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo ‘waiting’ for Man Utd transfer offer, open to late move | OneFootball

Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo is ‘waiting’ for a transfer offer from Manchester United, according to French publication Nice-Matin (today’s edition).

The 23-year-old has developed into a quality centre-back during his three years at Nice, and he was called up by France manager Didier Deschamps this year.

It is now reported that the former Barcelona man is on United’s radar as they seek to pursue a new central defender before the transfer window closes.

However, a move looks unlikely to happen at the moment. The Red Devils recently suffered a setback with Harry Maguire turning down a move to West Ham United.

United were aiming to spend on a centre-back after parting ways with the England international, but their plans have been hampered by Maguire’s decision to stay.

Benjamin Pavard could also dent Todibo’s chances of joining United. He has ‘openly revealed his intention’ to move to Old Trafford.

As things stand, Todibo has not ruled out a late transfer away from Les Aiglons, but he would also be happy to continue with them which is ‘quite a dilemma’ to have.

Todibo would be a better acquisition than Pavard

Pavard has been trying to force through a departure from Bayern. The Frenchman was recently spotted liking several posts on United’s official Instagram account.

Despite this, he is not close to joining the club. United recently proposed a €29m offer for the World Cup winner, but Bayern want at least €45-50m to consider his sale.

Todibo could be available for around €40m. The ex-Toulouse man is nearly four years younger than Pavard and has more room to develop with United.

He is a strong ball-playing defender with good tackling skills. He likes to contest duels and has a good aerial presence. He would be a quality back-up option in the squad.

United should prioritise Todibo over Pavard, but the club face a big stumbling block as they can’t spend without a high-profile exit due to Financial Fair Play constraints.

Maguire’s departure would have assisted their move for either player, but his decision to stay has messed things up for United. A new centre-back may not be signed.