Sir Jim Ratcliffe's first piece of business as Manchester United's new sporting director could anger supporters.
The 71-year-old and his company INEOS have agreed a £1.3billion sale with the Glazers to acquire a 25 per cent stake in the club which will see Ratcliffe take full control of the club's football operations.
However, the British businessman, who also owns Ligue 1 side Nice, is facing a fascinating transfer dilemma before he has even arrived at Old Trafford.
Advert
That is because Tottenham have reportedly opened talks to sign Nice defender Jean Clair Todibo, who has also been a long-term target for the Red Devils.
Following the reports, United fans have been left baffled why Ratcliffe would choose to negotiate with their Premier League rivals, as opposed to bringing the 23-year-old centre-back to Old Trafford.
Providing an update on the situation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano tweeted on Wednesday: "Understand Tottenham have now opened talks to sign Jean Clair Todibo in January.
Advert
"He’s high on Tottenham list, not easy deal with OGC Nice — but talks now starting. Spurs spoke also to player’s camp in the recent days.
"Todibo remains also on Man United list since June."
It remains to be seen whether Ratcliffe would actually sanction Todibo's move to Tottenham, but the Frenchman is keen to join up with Ange Postecoglou's side, according to the Daily Mail.
Topics: Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Football, Tottenham Hotspur, Transfers, Nice, Premier League
Joe Adams