Harry Maguire has been the subject of many a transfer speculation this summer. The English center-back is reportedly seeking greener pastures, and Manchester United are in the market looking for a replacement. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are monitoring OGC Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo.
Jean-Clair Todibo on Manchester United’s Radar
Manchester United had contacts to be informed on the conditions of Jean Clair Todibo deal. No bid or talks at this stage as the option could only be activated if Harry Maguire leaves 🔴🇫🇷 #MUFC
Juventus already left the race for Todibo last week. pic.twitter.com/DecIKzcUJh
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 7, 2023
The Frenchman Could Be a Priority Option if Maguire Leaves
Romano reported on his regular update video on Youtube that United have an eye on the situation of Ligue 1 star, Todibo. The French defender could be a priority option if former club captain Maguire leaves the club this summer.
The Old Trafford-based side have already been in contact with the player’s camp to assess the situation. The club also reportedly sent scouts to France to analyze the 23-year-old.
The reliable journalist understands that Newcastle are also interested and have scouted the defender. Juventus had previously enquired about the former Barcelona player, but the asking price turned out to be more than what the Turin side had to offer.
The transfer market guru wrote on his social media handle: “Manchester United had contacts to be informed on the conditions of Jean-Clair Todibo deal. No bids or talks at this stage, as the option could only be activated if Harry Maguire leaves. Juventus already left the race for Todibo last week.”
Watch: How Football Transfers Have Changed Over the Years
Harry Maguire Situation
The Red Devils’ interest in the Nice defender is subject to how the former Hull City player’s situation develops and whether or not he leaves Old Trafford. The English man was stripped of his captaincy recently which is an indication of Erik Ten Hag’s lack of trust in the former Leicester City man.
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The 30-year-old has been linked with a move away from the club, with West Ham submitting a bid of £20 million, which was eventually rejected by the United hierarchy.
The defender has had an unimpressive stay at Old Trafford since joining for a massive fee of around £80 million in the summer of 2019. His stint has been plagued with defensive mistakes which have prevented him from cementing his place in the lineup for a sustained period.
What Are Jean-Clair Todibo’s Major Strengths?
After facing a challenging spell in La Liga, the “daredevil” defender has managed to resurrect his career at Nice and has emerged as one of the best defenders in Ligue 1 at just 23 years old, with ample room for further development. His ball-playing abilities make him a pivotal player in the build-up. He is a masterful tackler who excels at defending one-on-one situations using his physicality and athleticism.
He is also a confident carrier of the ball from the back which is key in initiating attacks. The young defender appears to be improving constantly and could excel in the Premier League if he is chosen as the replacement.
Featured Image: Valery Ded, CC-BY-3.0.
