Manchester United discussing signing OGC Nice defender in January and Jim Ratcliffe could be instrumental

The Sun reports that in January, Manchester United will reestablish interest in signing OGC Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo.

In the summer, the 23-year-old was interested in joining the Red Devils; however, he preferred to remain with the Ligue 1 club in order to improve his prospects of becoming a France international.

Manchester United continue to explore alternatives in the position despite their inability to sell Harry Maguire this summer; manager Erik ten Hag was compelled to do so due to the long-term injury sustained by Lisandro Martinez.

The Dutchman continues to be interested in recruiting Todibo, whose former colleague Aaron Ramsey described him as “a tremendously, extraordinarily talented player.”

Over the past two seasons, he has established himself as one of the top Ligue 1 defenders, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s impending appointment at Old Trafford could provide him with an advantage.

Additionally, the British billionaire controls Nice, which may facilitate the completion of a transaction.

However, Manchester United must advocate for a permanent agreement prior to the January transfer window, as Premier League clubs want loans between clubs owned by the same group to be prohibited.

Additionally, they must persuade Todibo that he will make regular appearances, as he declined a transfer last summer in order to maintain his regular playing status at Nice.

His one absence out of twelve league contests this season contributes to the club’s current one-point deficit to Paris Saint-Germain in the standings.

To remain in consistent play in order to qualify for France’s 2024 European Championship squad may present a challenge for Todibo if he joins Manchester United in January and competes with Maguire and Raphael Varane for the starting right center-back position.

While it is possible that the Red Devils will have to postpone their pursuit of Varane until summer, a deal could still be possible in the winter if he grows impatient with falling behind Maguire in the hierarchy and decides to leave.