Man United's swoop for Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo 'is OFF due to UEFA rules' - with deal collapsing 'over both clubs sharing INEOS ownership'

Manchester United's pursuit of Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo is currently off due to the two clubs' shared ownership, according to a new report.

United, who recently decided to retain Erik ten Hag as manager after conducting a wide-sweeping end of season review, are determined to recruit a new centre back.

Todibo is believed to have featured prominently on their shortlist of targets but a deal now appears all but impossible this summer as a result of the UEFA rulebook.

INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, hold a stake in United and Nice, complicating their participation in European football and transfers between both clubs.

And although the two sides have been permitted to take part in the Europa League next campaign, it appears they have been denied the opportunity to conduct a deal.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano, providing a bombshell update on the saga, claimed that it is unlikely the move is rekindled despite talks reaching an advanced stage. 

Romano posted on X, formerly Twitter: 'Jean-Clair Todibo deal for Man United is currently off and highly unlikely due to UEFA rules.

'Talks were advanced with all parties keen for months but Nice and United with same ownership playing same European competition next season means no green light.'

United's interest in Todibo stretches back to last summer but a swoop for the 24-year-old did not materialise after Harry Maguire's move to West Ham collapsed.

Todibo admitted he was open to a Premier League switch and it was expected that United would wrap up the formalities with ease due to Ratcliffe's Nice connection.

Quizzed on a potential move to Old Trafford this summer, Todibo exclusively told Mail+: 'It's nice to hear all the compliments. I'm trying to stay focused on my game and my team-mates - but for sure I am open to playing in the Premier League.

'I'm going to keep that for me! Nice try.'

Ratcliffe, 71, is now set to pursue other targets. As reported by Mail Sport, United saw a £43million bid for highly-rated Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite rejected. 

It is understood United proposed a fixed figure of £35m with a further £8m in add-ons but this was deemed unacceptable by The Toffees. 

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are also continuing talks with Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, who has a £33.7m buy-out clause written into his contract.