Manchester United face surprise competition from Premier League rivals in chase for Ligue1 star - Reports
With the summer transfer window set to open in a week, Manchester United reportedly face surprise competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa in the race to sign Ligue1 star Jean-Clair Todibo. The 24-year-old center-back currently plays for the French club OGC Nice and is under his contract till June 30, 2027.
Jean-Clair Todibo has pulled off some great performances in the French league, which caught the attention of the Premier League sides. The promising defender has been linked with the Red Devils. However, Aston Villa are attempting to sign him to strengthen their squad for the new season approaching, as per L’Equipe.
Aston Villa finished fourth in the Premier League in the recently concluded campaign, securing Champions League qualification for the next season. As a result, manager Unai Emery is expected to make additions to the squad at Villa Park.
Jean-Clair Todibo joined Barcelona in 2019 and was sent out on loan to several clubs including Schalke 04, Benfica, and Nice before signing for Nice in 2021. He helped his side keep 15 clean sheets and provided three assists in 33 appearances across all competitions for the Ligue 1 side this season.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag will also be working on his squad for the upcoming season after finishing eighth in the Premier League, the lowest finish in the club's history.
The Red Devils claimed the 2023-2024 FA Cup and have qualified for next season's UEFA Europa League.
Manchester United midfielder named FA Cup's Player of the Season
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo was recently named FA Cup Player of the Season. The Englishman made his senior debut at Old Trafford in January 2023 in a match against Charlton Athletic in the EFL Cup quarter-final.
The 19-year-old has been a promising young prospect for the Red Devils, netting five goals and providing one assist in 35 appearances across competitions. He scored the second goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City, which ended in a 2-1 win for United.
Kobbie Mainoo's goal against Pep Guardiola's squad in the FA Cup final was also voted Manchester United's Goal of the Month for May.