Chelsea to rival Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur for Jean-Clair Todibo?

Chelsea have reportedly joined Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo.

The 23-year-old has established a reputation as a highly-rated defensive prospect during his time with the Ligue 1 club.

Todibo is also regarded as a key player in Francesco Farioli's side, having started 14 of the club's 17 top-flight matches this season.

The centre-back has played his part in a backline that currently boasts the best defensive record in the division with just nine goals conceded in the 2023-24 campaign.

After impressing at club level, Todibo has gone on to earn two international caps for France, making his debut in September's friendly against Germany, before featuring in November's 14-0 win over Gibraltar in Euro 2024 qualifying.

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With the transfer window now open until the end of the month, Todibo's future is set to draw considerable speculation.

Man United have already shown an interest in the Frenchman, while Tottenham are also keen to secure the player's signature.

According to Foot Mercato, Chelsea are set to join their fellow Premier League clubs in the race to sign the France international.

The Blues have splashed out on their defence in the last few transfer windows, recruiting the likes of Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi.

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Chelsea's central defensive options also include the experienced Thiago Silva as well as academy products Levi Colwill and Alfie Gilchrist.

While they may be spoilt for choice in terms of numbers, Chelsea are believed to be unsatisfied with their current crop of central defenders.

The Blues have kept just one clean sheet in their last 13 league games, and a leaky defence has ultimately contributed to their inconsistency, with Mauricio Pochettino's side sat in 10th position in the Premier League table.

Although they have identified Tobibo as a potential target, Chelsea may find it difficult to prise him away from the French Riviera.

With Nice currently enjoying a successful season in second place in Ligue 1, they are reluctant to part ways with Todibo in the middle of the campaign.