Manchester United have made contact with Nice over the potential transfer of Jean-Clair Todibo, according to RMC Sport.
The Red Devils currently have Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as the first-choice centre-backs with Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire providing back-up.
Maguire was largely out-of-favour during the back end of last season, and he could head for the exit door soon. West Ham recently made a £30 million bid for him.
Amidst this, RMC Sport claim that the Red Devils have reached out to Nice over a probable deal for Todibo. They have ‘asked for the conditions’ for the move.
Meanwhile, United have also made contact with the player’s entourage, and the talks were ‘constructive’. A deal eventually depends on Maguire leaving the club.
Man Utd could move for Todibo if Maguire leaves
West Ham are currently negotiating with United over Maguire. They recently made a £30m offer and it has been reported today that a compromise could be reached for £35m.
However, a deal remains complicated as the Red Devils will need to compensate his wages too. The club have to hand him a huge pay-off to accept a significant pay-cut at West Ham.
If they manage to finalise a deal, the focus could turn towards Todibo, who has been a long-term target for the Red Devils. The club were first interested in signing him in 2019.
The 23-year-old has improved leaps and bounds over the past four years. The Frenchman earned his maiden call-up to the national side earlier in March amid his progress.
Todibo would be a good upgrade on Maguire. He is a strong ball-playing centre-back. Last season, he completed 57 passes per Ligue 1 appearances with an accuracy of 89 per cent.
Meanwhile, he registered 1.2 interceptions, 2.2 tackles and 3.1 clearances while winning 65 per cent of his duels. He should have no trouble in adapting to the Premier League demands.
Nice are looking for around €45m (£39m) and a deal could be straightforward if United are willing to come close to the price. It first depends on Maguire heading for the exit door.