Manchester United set to miss out on Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo due to multi-club ownership rules – Paper Round

Manchester United face a massive hurdle in their pursuit of Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo.

Athletic report that the fact that Ineos has stakes in both parties will likely prevent them from being allowed to do a deal.

“United and Nice, the Ligue 1 club owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS company, have qualified for the Europa League and are waiting to find out if they will both be allowed to play in the competition next season.

“UEFA regulations do not allow any organization or individual to have ‘decisive influence’ over the operations of more than one club in the same competition. Ratcliffe also owns a 27.7% stake in United.

“Both clubs had until June 3 to provide evidence to UEFA to show they are in compliance with the rules and now await the verdict of an independent panel on the matter.

“Todibo has been mooted as a potential transfer target by United, who have prioritized signing a centre-back this summer following the departure of Raphael Varane.”

Aston Villa have agreed to sign Ian Maatsen from Chelsea, according to The Telegraph.

However, the paper states that the club have yet to convince the player to make the switch.

Chelsea have given Villa permission to speak to Maatsen, who is on international duty with Holland at the European Championship.

The Netherlands are expected to allow the defender to speak to Villa remotely via video call, with head coach Unai Emery hoping to seal a deal.

“‌Maatsen spent the second half of last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, where he wanted to stay, but the German club have so far indicated they cannot match Chelsea’s valuation.

“‌Chelsea remain in talks to sign Villa striker Jhon Duran, but have other targets in the works including Atletico Madrid’s Samu Omorodion and Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke.”

Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omorodion is wanted by Chelsea, but the offer has been rejected.

The Evening Standard suggests that a £30m bid was not enough.

“The Spain Under-21 star, who is yet to play a senior game for Atleti, spent last season on loan at Alaves and fits Chelsea’s profile.

“Standing at 6ft 3”, Omorodion has an imposing profile. He scored eight goals in La Liga last season as the Babazorros achieved a top half in their first season back in the top flight.

“Atletico are understood to have rejected a bid of around £30m from the Blues and are determined to keep hold of one of their most prized young talents.

“Chelsea remain interested in Aston Villa’s Colombian forward Jhon Duran and are believed to remain in dialogue with the Birmingham club over a possible deal.”

Former Chelsea manager Graham Potter looks set to lose his job at Leicester City.

The Sun reports that Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper is now in line for the job.

“The former Chelsea manager agreed terms with the Foxes this week and discussed backroom appointments.

“However, despite both sides believing a formal deal was close, doubts arose overnight and the newly promoted side reopened talks with Steve Cooper.

“The former manager of Leicester’s rivals Nottingham Forest held talks with the club earlier in the summer but Potter has emerged as favorite to replace Enzo Maresca.

“Talks with the 49-year-old have been delayed, leading to frustration from the Leicester owner, who are now discussing terms with Cooper.”