Man United irony laid bare as concerns grow over INEOS’ transfer target

Manchester United’s hopes of a discount for Jean-Clair Todibo have been dismissed as INEOS continue to consider a summer transfer.

A cut-price deal for Todibo had been considered at Manchester United due to their relationship with the Frenchman’s current club Nice, which is also owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS.

However, 90min have revealed that Nice are demanding between £47m and £51m for Todibo’s services.

Read More: Man United “itching” to sell player with non-European club lining up transfer

While a discount for United due to their ownership is off the table, a deal closer to £34m may still be possible.

Despite Lisandro Martínez and Raphaël Varane demonstrating their capabilities as centre-backs for Manchester United, both have encountered injury setbacks throughout the season.

As a consequence, Manchester United’s defensive lineup has lacked consistency, with frequent changes in both centre-back positions.

To tackle this challenge, Erik ten Hag could consider a young central defender who is less susceptible to injuries, aiming to establish stability in the team’s defence.

24-year-old Todibo would, therefore, be perfect as he has only missed seven days this season for Nice.

But United aren’t the only club looking to secure the youngster’s signature as Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, who made a move for Todibo in January, are also interested.

The news has sparked reactions on social media, joking at the ridiculous nature of INEOS negotiating with itself.

Freelance sports writer Robin Bairner took to X to poke fun at the news, stating ironically: “Man Utd so bad at negotiating transfers, they can’t even do business with themselves.”