Manchester United and OGC Nice are expected to form a useful partnership in the years ahead, with both clubs now falling under the INEOS banner. Express Sport looks at four potential deals they could agree on this summer at the start of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era at Old Trafford.
Jean-Clair Todibo
United’s reported interest in Jean-Clair Todibo started before Ratcliffe emerged as the winning bidder in the club’s takeover saga.
The 24-year-old centre-back was said to have been identified as a potential replacement after West Ham United saw a £30m bid for Harry Maguire accepted last summer.
United will sign at least one central defender later this year, with Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans’ contracts expiring in July and Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof entering the final 12 months of their deals.
Todibo is expected to leave Nice at the end of the season, with other clubs circling. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Ligue 1 outfit value him at around £40m.
Melvin Bard
Romano also claims that United will sign a new left-back this summer amid concerns over Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia’s injury-hit campaigns.
According to Standard Sport, the Red Devils have already contacted Nice left-back Melvin Bard about a potential switch.
The attack-minded 23-year-old has enjoyed a terrific season and is knocking on the door of France’s Euro 2024 squad.
He could arrive at Old Trafford as suitable competition and a possible future successor for Shaw.
Khephren Thuram
Khephren Thuram hasn’t been as strongly linked to United as the previous two players but they have been touted as suitors alongside a group of European heavyweights, including Liverpool and Barcelona.
The energetic midfielder only turned 23 in March and is reportedly available for just £30m this summer as Nice look to raise funds.
United would need a more defensive-minded midfielder to replace Casemiro if the Brazilian departs. However, Christian Eriksen could follow him out the exit door.
Thuram would be a valuable squad option, potentially replacing the energy Ten Hag lost by offloading Fred last summer.
Loans
United’s relationship with Nice could work the other way to benefit both clubs. There are multiple players currently at Old Trafford who need positive loans to continue their development.
Facundo Pellistri could depart on another loan if he isn’t sold in the summer. In midfield, the likes of Hannibal Mejbri and Dan Gore will need regular minutes elsewhere.
Willy Kambwala could also be sent out on loan if United recruit a couple of new centre-backs in the summer.
The Frenchman has made his breakthrough this season and, turning 20 in August, needs to take the next step.
