Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of signing Jean-Clair Todibo – despite Harry Maguire's decision to stay at the club.
Erik ten Hag is determined to strengthen his options in the backline and although attempts to offload Maguire have so far failed, the club's interest in OGC Nice defender Todibo has remained strong throughout the summer transfer window. It seemed former club captain Maguire would join West Ham, but negotiations over personal terms broke down, leading to the collapse of the deal.
United had accepted a £30million offer for Maguire, which would have covered a significant portion of Todibo's fee. Bayern Munich’s Benjamin Pavard was earmarked as the number one replacement for Maguire but appears set to sign for Inter Milan, leading the Red Devils to step up their efforts for Tobido.
According to French outlet L'Equipe (via the Mirror), United are close to reaching a £34m agreement with Nice and Todibo is reportedly eager to make the switch to Old Trafford. Ten Hag rates the player's technical ability and his ease when playing out from the back.
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The 23-year-old Frenchman stands out for his composure on the ball, boasting a pass accuracy of 89% or higher with an average of 57 passes per game last season. If United complete the deal before the transfer deadline, their total summer spending will exceed £200m.
Mason Mount, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund have already joined the club this summer. However, there are still players within the current squad who could potentially leave to generate funds or balance the books after a period of heavy investment in the team.
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Anthony Martial, Donny van de Beek and Scott McTominay have all been linked with moves away from Old Trafford. Gary Neville believes that United should prioritise signing another midfielder rather than another defender like Todibo.
The former full-back said: "Ten Hag wants a number six who can play alongside Casemiro and at the moment the club can't get players out to be able to fund that. If they look at the first two weeks, they have to fund it or there will be big problems."
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