Manchester United really want to sign OGC Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo, but UEFA rules are making it hard for them.
Even so, the club is trying hard to find a way around this issue. HITC reports that United is looking into how to deal with the rule problems to get the transfer done.
Getting a new central defender is key for Man United, as Raphael Varane is leaving when his contract ends.
Coach Erik ten Hag has a list of defenders he likes, and Todibo is at the top because he’s really good at a lot of things.
The complication arises because Sir Jim Ratcliffe owns both Nice and Manchester United.
UEFA regulations prevent teams under the same ownership from trading players if both are competing in European competitions.
Since United qualified for UEL by winning the FA Cup, they are currently barred from signing Todibo.
Had they lost to Manchester City in the final, the transfer would have been straightforward.
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Despite these hurdles, Manchester United are not giving up. HITC reports that the club is in ongoing discussions with UEFA to explore possible solutions.
The Red Devils are keen to advance talks for Todibo, but progress has stalled unless an agreement with the authorities can be reached.
Officials at Old Trafford are reportedly frustrated by the situation and are actively seeking a resolution.
Manchester United wants to buy Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton, too. But, a story from The Times says Everton wants £70 million for him. This big price makes it hard for United, as they don’t want to spend that much.
Everton can ask for this much because they might sell another player, Lewis Dobbin, to Aston Villa. If they sell Dobbin, they won’t need money right away. So, they can stick to their high price for Branthwaite.
The ongoing negotiations for both Todibo and Branthwaite highlight Manchester United’s urgent need to strengthen their defense.
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UEFA’s rules have made the Todibo deal more complex than expected. Yet, the club’s drive to improve their team for the upcoming season is clear.
They’re still talking with UEFA, trying to find a way to get Todibo on board despite the rules.
It’s still up in the air if Manchester United will manage to bring Todibo in. They also have to think about Branthwaite, weighing their need for more defenders against the cost of bringing new players in.
