INEOS, under the leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has officially obtained a 25% stake in Manchester United, a revelation made public on Christmas Eve.
Ratcliffe’s ultimate goal is to gradually take full control of the club, leveraging his vast experience and connections in the sporting world to enhance the Premier League giants. Already involved in football ownership through French club OGC Nice, Ratcliffe’s influence has seen the team perform admirably in Ligue 1 under Francesco Farioli’s management.
As Ratcliffe considers a potential entry into Manchester United’s ownership, speculation emerges regarding potential player targets from Nice. One such player catching United’s eye is French international Jean-Clair Todibo, previously at Barcelona before securing a permanent move to Nice. Todibo has formed a formidable defensive partnership with Arsenal loanee William Saliba at Allianz Riviera, establishing himself as a commanding center-back.
United had previously shown interest in Todibo, particularly as a contingency for potential changes in their defensive lineup. Reports from 90min in August highlighted United’s monitoring of Todibo, although he remained at Old Trafford amidst uncertainties surrounding Harry Maguire.
Another player of note at Nice is Khephren Thuram, son of Lilian Thuram and younger sibling of Marcus. Khephren Thuram, a distinctive and graceful box-to-box midfielder, has attracted attention from several top European clubs.
Despite United’s midfield depth, Thuram could draw Ratcliffe’s interest if there arises a need for an additional commanding midfielder.
As Sir Jim Ratcliffe seeks to exert his influence on Manchester United, the prospect of player transfers from Nice to Old Trafford adds an intriguing element to the evolving dynamics in football. Observers keenly await the interplay between ownership, player acquisitions, and the strategic vision for Manchester United, as Ratcliffe endeavors to leave an imprint on the revered club.
