Man United deal to sign defender now ‘highly unlikely’ despite positive talks

A Man United move to sign Jean-Clair Todibo is now looking unlikely to happen.

We’re honestly sick of talking about the fact that Manchester United need to sign a central defender this summer, but here we are again!

Several names have been linked with filling the Raphael Varane-shaped hole at the heart of the back four, with Jarrad Branthwaite the most likely candidate as things stand. However, the Englishman could prove to be too expensive after an initial bid from United was turned down by Everton.

In terms of other targets, Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo looks like an option. The France international enjoyed himself again in 2023/24, putting in some stellar performances.

However, Fabrizio Romano has provided a devastating update on that front. He says that a United move to sign the defender is now ‘highly unlikely’ due to UEFA rules. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has a stake in both United and Nice and apparently, transfers between the two are not currently allowed…

That’s despite ‘advanced’ talks taking place over the last few months, though the fact that United and Nice are playing in the Europa League next term means a transfer cannot happen as things stand.

Check out Fabrizio Romano’s X post on the news here:

This is a gutting blow. Although Todibo probably wasn’t the number one choice for the Reds, he would have been a top signing.

The France international is now no longer an option whatsoever – unless United can somehow find a way to bypass the rules or force UEFA into a change.

United now have no option but to look at other targets.

Who do you think Man United should target in the centre-back position? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.