Manchester United has cast an intrigued eye towards the promising talent of Jean-Clair Todibo, the centre-back hailing from Nice. This contemplation comes in light of the uncertainty surrounding Harry Maguire’s position at Old Trafford. Fabrizio Romano, a revered figure in transfer matters, has unveiled that the club is actively weighing the prospect of enlisting Todibo as a possible successor to Maguire, should the latter’s departure materialize during the ongoing summer transfer window.

The saga unfolded amidst a 1-1 draw between Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao in Dublin. In a disconcerting incident, Maguire was met with disapproval from fervent supporters after relinquishing possession, inadvertently gifting Athletic Bilbao the upper hand. An errant pass from Maguire created an opportune gap, promptly capitalized upon by Nico Williams for Athletic’s opening salvo. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet. 

The match itself showcased Maguire as part of a second-string XI, an indication of his diminished status within the team’s hierarchy. While United’s premier squad took the stage at Old Trafford against Lens, Maguire’s role in the Dublin encounter underscored a notable decline.

Manager Erik ten Hag’s preferences have veered towards Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as the favored center-back partnership, even favoring Victor Lindelof and left-back Luke Shaw over Maguire. This shift in favor coupled with the revocation of Maguire’s captaincy during the summer transfer window has given rise to rampant speculations about his impending departure, with West Ham expressing a keen interest in his services.

The financial obstacle looms large as Maguire’s escalated wage package, a consequence of United’s Champions League qualification, could deter prospective suitors. As Manchester United contemplates a potential future sans Maguire, the club’s sights have been trained on the youthful Jean-Clair Todibo, a central figure in Nice’s defense.

Fabrizio Romano, via his YouTube platform, shed light on the situation, revealing, “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.”

United’s top brass have demonstrated a palpable interest in Todibo, seeking pertinent details for a probable deal. The ultimate decision to pursue the French talent, however, hinges on Maguire’s fate. Ten Hag’s need for a quartet of center-backs underscores the significance of Maguire’s potential exit.

Todibo, who once plied his trade with Barcelona, has found a stable haven at Nice, sealing a permanent contract in 2021. At 23 years old, his performances have earned plaudits, featuring prominently in 46 appearances across diverse competitions in Ligue 1.

With Nice under the stewardship of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a purported United suitor, Todibo is valued at around €30 million. Yet, substantive discussions with the French club remain stymied by Maguire’s unresolved situation. The trajectory of Todibo’s journey is enmeshed with Maguire’s decision to stay or leave.

While Todibo’s displays dazzled, Nice’s finish in ninth place rendered them ineligible for European contests in the forthcoming season. The absence of European football could exert influence over Todibo’s decision-making as he weighs his options.

With his contract extending four more years, Nice commands a formidable position in any negotiations concerning Todibo’s potential transfer. Towering at 6 feet 2 inches, the talented defender boasts a versatile skill set. His agility, prowess in building plays from the back, aerial dominance, and robust defensive contributions make him a coveted prospect.

In harnessing Todibo’s abilities, Manchester United could secure a valuable asset if they triumph in their quest to bring him aboard during the current transfer window. Yet, the formidable negotiation stance of Nice could present hurdles for the Red Devils. Regardless, the funds accrued from Maguire’s hypothetical departure could facilitate their endeavors.

As the story unfolds, no official pronouncements have emerged from Todibo’s camp regarding his future trajectory. It appears improbable that he will seek an exit prior to the commencement of the new season, set to unfold in the ensuing week. Get the latest updates from the world of football only on Nextbet Sports.