Tottenham ‘open talks’ with Todibo as Ratcliffe could rule against Ten Hag
Ange Postecoglou hails Tottenham’s composure in victory at Nottingham Forest
Tottenham have reportedly held talks over a move for Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo in the January transfer window. Ange Postecoglou is keen to bolster his defensive ranks next month and numerous arrivals in that department have not been ruled out, with several options being explored.
Spurs enjoyed a sensational start to the season, with the good form of new man Micky van de Ven playing a key role in that success. The Dutchman hit the ground running in the Premier League and, along with James Maddison, asserted himself as one of the signings of the summer.
The former Wolfsburg star is not expected to return until early 2024 though, prompting Spurs to scour the market for reinforcements – having played several matches this season with a back four made up of fullbacks.
Tottenham are looking to strike early in the January transfer window to sign a centre-back, with football.london reporting that conversations have been held to discuss signing France international Todibo. The 23-year-old has plenty of suitors around Europe, with Spurs believing that his desire to play out from the back would make him the ideal fit into Postecoglou’s system.
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Todibo has played a key role in Nice’s success this season, with Francesco Fariolo’s side sitting in second place in the Ligue 1 and appearing to be the likeliest candidate to push Paris Saint-Germain for the title.
As such, Spurs will need to table a sizable bid to test the resolve of Nice – and Sir Jim Ratcliffe in particular. The INEOS owner, who is set to buy a 25 per cent stake in Manchester United imminently, purchased the French side in 2019 and has invested heavily in helping the club produce talented players.
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Tottenham aren’t the only side interested in acquiring the services of Todibo though, as United are also keen on the 23-year-old – with Erik ten Hag desperate to bring in a new centre-back to replace Raphael Varane in January. Newcastle are also said to be keen.
With the Red Devils pushing for Todibo, Ratcliffe has been gifted the perfect opportunity to stamp his authority on United by ignoring the transfer pleas from Ten Hag and allowing the defender to join Tottenham – who are challenging for a similar league position to his boyhood club. Although allowing a top talent to join a direct rival would not benefit Ratcliffe on the surface, it would prevent the club from signing a much-needed centre-back without his blessing as his minor takeover has not been signed off yet, which could outweigh the negatives of the transfer in the eyes of the 71-year-old.
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