France international drops future hint amid Newcastle United and Liverpool interest

Newcastle United have been linked with a move for France international Jean-Clair Todibo - and the Nice centre-back has already given an insight into his thoughts on his future.

The 23-year-old has become one of the most consistent defenders in Ligue 1 after joining Nice on a permanent deal from Barcelona during the summer of 2021 following a successful loan stint at the Allianz Riviera.

Although Les Aiglons endured a somewhat uninspiring season, ended the campaign sat in ninth place and without a trophy, Todibo’s form brought him to the attention of several clubs around Europe and he further enhanced his reputation when he was named in the France squad to face the Netherlands and Northern Ireland in Euro 2024 qualifiers in March.

Although he did not earn his first cap, Todibo was asked several questions regarding his future and admitted he will be careful when it comes to considering a summer move away from his current employers.

Speaking to RMC Sport, he said: “I don’t know if it would be the right choice to go elsewhere.

“It’s not the time to think about it. I am much more serene about this now, and if I am called upon to make a choice, I will do it with a lot of reflection. I am very grateful to Nice. They have given me a lot, and I hope to give back as much as possible by wearing this shirt. What allowed me to find peace is my personal life. I found my wife, and I have stabilised. My arrival at Nice has also given me sporting stability.”

Despite remaining under contract until the summer of 2027, there has been speculation suggesting Nice could allow Todibo to depart over the coming months. French outlet L’Equipe have reported the defender and team-mate Khephren Thuram are both attracting a lot of attention, with Newcastle and Liverpool both suggested as possible suitors for the duo.

The Reds have reportedly agreed terms of a deal for midfielder Thuram - but local news outlet Nice-Matin have revealed AC Milan, Newcastle and Paris Saint-Germain could be handed an opportunity to land Todibo during the summer transfer window, with a fee of around £25million suggested elsewhere.