United reluctant to meet sought-after target’s asking price despite holding significant advantage with club owners

Manchester United are reportedly reluctant to meet Nice’s asking price for longstanding target Jean-Clair Todibo, as per 90min.

The Red Devils technically hold somewhat of an upper hand in any potential talks for the defender given that the French outfit are also owned by new arrival Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, although this won’t give United any discount on his transfer fee.

Nice are believed to value Todibo between £47 million and £51m, which has been deemed too expensive on United’s behalf despite the fact that they’re rumoured to be targeting Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, who could cost upwards of £75m if he departs Goodison Park in the next window.

Fans are expecting an active summer window

A proven, young centre-half is high on Erik ten Hag’s shortlist this summer due to the injury-plagued campaign that he is still navigating. Stalwart starter Lisandro Martinez has been limited to just eight Premier League appearances this term, while Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans have all missed at least one match through illness or fitness complaints. 

The circumstances led to 19-year-old youth prospect Willy Kambwala being promoted to the senior team when he made his first-team debut in December 2023.