Report: Tottenham join race for highly-coveted Ligue 1 centre-back

Tottenham Hotspur see the signing of a new centre-back as the top priority in the January transfer window, and Nice defender, Jean-Clair Todibo is now thought to be on the shortlist of options for the position.

After a disastrous season in defence last year, Spurs had seemingly resolved that issue with the signing of Micky van de Ven during the summer. The 22-year-old slotted into the centre of the Spurs defence alongside Cristian Romero with ease.

However, the hamstring injury sustained by the Dutchman has left Ange Postecoglou with a big problem, especially given Romero’s suspension.

Eric Dier had been brought back into the fold to cover, but made mistakes in the defeat to Wolves and was subsequently dropped for the Aston Villa game. The pairing of full-backs Emerson Royal and Ben Davies tells you all you need to know about Spurs’ issues.

Spurs want Todibo, but who doesn’t?

It’s no surprise then, that the Lilywhites are expected to move for a new defender in January. And now, the latest from the Standard suggests Spurs are joining the queue of admirers for Jean-Clair Todibo.

The report claims Spurs are “desperate” to reinforce their backline in January, and finding a new centre-back has become the “top priority” for the North London club.

Todibo is said to be “keen to move to the Premier League,” but will want “reassurances” regarding how much game time he would get at any prospective club, with a place in France’s Euro 2024 squad in his sights.

The 23-year-old has been attracting interest from the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool for some time now, and is thought “to be available for around £39m.”

Spurs are “ready to rival” anyone who chases Todibo, but “some of the best clubs in Europe” are also thought to be in pursuit.

Spurs Web Opinion

Jean-Clair Todibo is a top-quality centre-half who would offer something a little different to what we have in Romero and van de Ven. £39m is a steal for an up-and-coming player like this, but I have a feeling the intense competition for his signature will send that price rising a lot higher.