Southampton have joined Watford and Everton in the race to sign Barcelona defender Jean-Clair Todibo, according to Mundo Deportivo.
It is reported that Barcelona are listening to offers for the French centre back, as they look to raise funds in order to sign Neymar or Lautaro Martinez this summer. Barcelona are said to value the former Toulouse man at £23m.
The 20-year-old has impressed out on loan at Schalke, and his performances have caught the eye of Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl, who is keen to improve his defence.
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This could be a very good signing for the Saints if Ralph Hasenhuttl can manage to secure the Frenchman’s signature.
He has been impressive since breaking through at Ligue 1 side Toulouse and has been immense while on loan at Schalke. Todibo is considered by us as one of Europe’s most talented defenders.
Saints have the joint second-worst defensive record in the Premier League, but signing Todibo could help solidify up the Saints’ defence. He seems to be a long term target of Hasenhuttl’s, and the young defender would slot perfectly in the club’s philosophy.
He has unlimited potential, and, for me, it would be silly for Southampton to not make a move for him if he is available.
However, it may not be easy to secure a deal.
Firstly, Barcelona are seeking funds to make big-money signings so they may demand a higher fee for Todibo’s signature and with multiple clubs interested, Saints could struggle to get the player to St Mary’s.
