DONE DEAL

DONE DEAL

Liverpool has surged ahead in the competition to acquire the services of highly-regarded center-back Jean-Clair Todibo from OGC Nice, according to recent reports.

Manchester United no longer holds the upper hand, as Liverpool is reported to have the “advantage” over their fierce rivals. Jurgen Klopp has grappled with numerous defensive injuries this season, with the significant loss of Joel Matip to an anterior cruciate ligament tear.

Joel Matip, the Cameroonian defender, will now conclude his Liverpool contract while being sidelined due to injury, marking a regrettable conclusion to his memorable stint at Anfield.

Liverpool is in a prime position to secure the signing of Jean-Clair Todibo, outpacing competition from Manchester United.

According to a report from the French news outlet close to Ligue 1 club Nice-Matin, Liverpool is leading the race to sign Jean-Clair Todibo in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The 24-year-old is a promising player who would seamlessly fit into Liverpool’s squad and significantly elevate Manchester United’s defensive capabilities. Nevertheless, Manchester United might have to miss out on the opportunity, as Klopp is reportedly in a strong position to secure his signature. Joining Anfield is seen as a highly appealing prospect for the center-back.

Todibo shares a close relationship with Ibrahima Konate

Positively for Liverpool, Todibo reportedly shares a close relationship with Ibrahima Konate, and this connection could play a significant role in persuading him that a move to Merseyside would be a wise decision.

Acquiring the services of the defender would come with an approximate price tag of €60 million (£51.6 million), which, considering his performance metrics, appears to be a reasonable cost. Statistical data from Fbref indicates that Todibo is on the verge of establishing himself as one of the premier central defenders globally.

He stands in the 90th percentile for tackles made per 90 by a center-back in Europe, with an average of 2.25. Additionally, he records nearly two interceptions per game and demonstrates exceptional reliability, seldom committing errors.

Particularly appealing for a team like Liverpool, which places significant importance on counter-pressing, Todibo boasts an impressive average of 7.84 ball recoveries per 90, positioning him in the 97th percentile for this category. In essence, Todibo would be an outstanding signing.