Arsenal could now be set to go toe-to-toe with Manchester United over the signature of one mutual transfer target.
Both Arsenal and Manchester United are keen to bolster their defensive contingents in the summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta has already constructed a remarkably effective defensive unit at the Emirates Stadium. However, it lacks strength in depth.
William Saliba made Arsenal history last season as he became the first outfield player to ever play every minute of a Premier League campaign for the club. His centre-back partner, Gabriel Magalhaes, also played an awful lot of football.
Whilst Jurrien Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu can both offer cover in the heart of the rearguard, they both suffered injury issues last season. Meanwhile Jakub Kiwior, who is a centre-back by trade, was required to fill in a left-back for an extended period.
This indicates that the Gunners could do with a greater pool of options in that part of the pitch. On top of that, Arsenal are also keen to sign a left-back this summer.
Arsenal keen on Manchester United target Jean-Clair Todibo
According to journalist Christ Wheatley, speaking on Shots!, the North London club are now eyeing up Nice star Jean-Clair Todibo.
The reporter stated: “A name was mentioned to me a few weeks ago, and that was Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice. He is, again, really sought after. Man United have been the main name linked with him, but interestingly, I heard that he was kind of above other players on Arsenal’s shortlist.
“Todibo is the one that was mentioned to me…I think Man United, at the moment, are probably frontrunners.”
The 24-year-old impressed for the Ligue 1 outfit this season, making 33 appearances across all competitions. His form at domestic level also earned him his first senior call up to the France squad. He made his international debut in September 2023, but he will not be joining Saliba in Didier Deschamps’ squad at Euro 2024.
Arsenal must avoid Todibo bidding war whilst they have other priorities
Todibo is undeniably a real talent, and would likely impress in Arteta’s side. However, in the context of this summer transfer window, he is unlikely to be a top target for the Gunners. A left-back is already on the agenda as well as a striker, whilst a midfield addition is now the top priority for Arsenal.
Certainly if Manchester United push hard for Todibo’s services then Arsenal may have to let him go, rather than be drawn into a bidding war with their Premier League rivals.
Arsenal players and transfer targets at Euro 2024
In this week’s episode of Cannon Fire – The Arsenal Insider Podcast, Will Jones and Rahul Lakhani discuss the European Championships. With 11 Arsenal players set to feature at the tournament, the pair debated which players could be fighting for their futures, and which are destined to succeed on the international stage.