Man Utd concerned over Jean-Clair Todibo asking price
- Man Utd's interest in Todibo dates back to before INEOS' minority takeover
- Red Devils would not receive a discount despite both clubs sharing owners
- Final asking price yet to be finalised
By Tom Gott, Ben Jacobs
Manchester United will not receive a discount from Nice if they choose to pursue a summer bid for centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo, 90min understands.
Both clubs are under the same ownership after INEOS chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe purchased a 28% stake in United, whose interest in Todibo predates the takeover.
The arrival of INEOS at Old Trafford has led to suggestions that Todibo could follow this summer. Finding a new centre-back is a top priority for United, but sources have confirmed to 90min that Nice's current asking price is a concern for Red Devils officials.
Nice are understood to be demanding a fee between €55m and €60m (£47m and £51m) to part ways with Todibo, and while that may be cheaper than other targets on United's radar, such as Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite, it is not currently seen as the best value for money.
Branthwaite is thought to be a more appealing name, and though his asking price isn't clear yet, it is likely to me a minimum of £70m. A final decision over summer targets is yet to be made by United.
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United are not the only side cautious of Nice's demands. Tottenham Hotspur made a move for Todibo in January but walked away over the asking price. Most suitors believe the 24-year-old should be available for closer to the €40m (£34m) mark.
Chelsea have also scouted Todibo but are currently more focused on Sporting CP's Ousmane Diomande, who 90min revealed was the Blues' top defensive target earlier this year.
Nice's bargaining position has arguably weakened since the January transfer window amid a difficult run of form which has seen them fall from second in Ligue 1 down to sixth, outside the Champions League qualification spots.
Their poor form of late even led to a confrontation between Todibo and a section of disgruntled Nice supporters on Friday night. Todibo saw his commitment to the club questioned but took offence to the suggestions, with the 24-year-old focused on a strong end to the season before considering his options.
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