Tottenham join race for Man United target Jean-Clair Todibo

Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race to sign OGC Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo, according to the Evening Standard. 

Spurs are searching for centre-backs to bolster their ranks after Micky van de Ven suffered an injury against Chelsea that will keep him out of action until 2024.

It did not help that Cristian Romero also received a red card during the same match. Tottenham had to play full-backs Ben Davies and Emerson Royal in central defence in their last game against Aston Villa.

They desperately need a new central defender and will make signing one a priority in the January transfer window.

Tottenham are in the race for Todibo, who has been impressing in Ligue 1 this season. Les Aiglons are looking defensively resolute under new manager Francesco Farioli as they sit second on the log.

Todibo has helped his side keep eight clean sheets in 11 matches, and Nice have the best defensive record, conceding only five goals.

The France international has won 62% of his duels, averaging two tackles and 1.7 interceptions per game. 

Todibo is just as impressive on the ball, recording a 90% pass accuracy while making 4.75 progressive passes per 90.

His performances have attracted the interest of Liverpool and Manchester United, who have him on their radar as they seek to strengthen their rearguard.

Liverpool defender Joel Matip is entering the final year of his contract with the Merseyside club, and there are no talks of a new deal, pushing them into the centre-back market.

United are also searching for a new defender after Raphael Varane reportedly fell out with manager Erik ten Hag. 

The Premier League trio will slug it out for Todibo, whom Nice value at £39 million. Several other European giants are also in for the 23-year-old, and Spurs could miss out on his signature. 

Tottenham also have Bournemouth centre-back Lloyd Kelly on their shortlist while they retain an interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.