In a recent print edition, Nice-Matin stated that Newcastle United could face stiff competition for Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo this summer. It has been revealed that the Magpies will have to rival Aston Villa and West Ham United in the race to sign the French centre-back in this off-season.
Todibo’s Impressive Form In French Football Last Season
Todibo enjoyed a decent campaign at the French club as he was responsible for putting in a handful of solid displays for them on the defensive third of the pitch. The 23-year-old made 46 appearances for Nice last season across all competitions.
The French centre-half was a rock at the back and did well to average 2.2 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.1 clearances per game in Ligue 1. He was even careful when distributing the ball from the back based on his pass completion rate of 88.9% in the French top tier (stats via whoscored).
Todibo is under contract at the French club until the summer of 2027. Hence, it won’t be easy for the Magpies to get him on board on a cut-price deal in this ongoing transfer window.
Is Todibo The Right Fit For Newcastle United Head Coach Eddie Howe?
Todibo is a solid tackler of the ball and can sense the danger quickly to earn the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and is even proficient at playing his way out from the back. Standing at 1.90m, the French defensive ace can use his strong frame to dominate the opposition in the air and win a few aerial duels for his side.
At 23, there is still a lot of room for improvement in Todibo’s game. However, there is no denying that he is good enough to serve as a valuable asset in Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s team next season.
Todibo will undoubtedly increase competition for places within Newcastle‘s squad. Hence, he would be a decent fit for Howe’s needs at the Tyneside club right now. With all things considered, the Magpies should focus on getting a deal done for him before the end of this transfer window.
