In the event that Harry Maguire leaves the team during the summer transfer window, Manchester United is reportedly examining the prospect of signing Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo as a potential Harry Maguire replacement.
The United fans booed their star defender during Sunday’s 1-1 draw between United and Athletic Bilbao in Dublin. The incident started when Maguire mishandled the ball, which allowed Athletic to score first. He tried to advance from defense, but he dropped the pass, creating a space that Nico Williams was able to take advantage of.
The United center-back featured in a primarily backup lineup because the Red Devils’ first lineup played Lens at Old Trafford the day before. This incident brings to light the English star’s sharp decline in status within the Old Trafford squad.
Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are the center-back tandem that manager Erik ten Hag prefers. Even Luke Shaw at left-back and Victor Lindelof have received his preference over Maguire.
The 30-year-old’s boss also removed the captaincy from him during the summer transfer window. Because of this, there has been a lot of discussion regarding his future exit, and West Ham is really interested in signing him.
However, his substantial salary, which has increased due to United qualifying for the Champions League, may present a significant obstacle for any potential suitors looking to sign him.
In the event of the former Leicester City star’s potential departure, Man United are already preparing for his exit and have set their sights on young Nice center-back Todibo as a possible replacement.
Romano on his Youtube channel said:
“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.”
The player has drawn interest from the club hierarchy, who have also asked for details about possible contract terms. However, they will need Maguire to find a new club before they can pursue the French player. Ten Hag would require a roster of four center-backs, and with Maguire’s departure, the team would have few options.
Todibo, who previously played for Barcelona for two seasons, has finally found stability at Nice after signing a long-term contract there in 2021. The 23-year-old has made an impression with his performances, appearing in 46 games for the Ligue 1 team in all competitions.
Todibo is valued at about €30 million by Nice, which is owned by potential United suitor Sir Jim Ratcliffe. However, due to the fact that any action is reliant on Maguire’s future at the club, conversations between the two clubs have not advanced considerably to this point. It’s possible that Todibo won’t be pursued if the English star remains.
Despite his outstanding efforts, Nice came in eighth, and as a result, they won’t be competing in any European tournaments this coming season. This absence of European football may have an impact on the 23-year-old’s future career decisions.
The French club has a strong negotiating position in any future transfer negotiations for Todibo because he has four years left on his present contract.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall, the gifted defender possesses a wide range of exceptional abilities. He is speedy, great at playing out from the back, skilled in aerial battles, and makes a good defensive contribution.