Man United transfer 'off' as UEFA rules scupper move despite Benjamin Sesko deal

Manchester United's transfer business has been a non-mover so far despite plenty of interest, yet Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains at square one in his transfer plans.

An opening bid of around £35m plus £8m in add-ons for Jarrad Branthwaite was swiftly turned down by Everton last week with the Toffees' remaining tight-gripped on their £75m valuation of the centre-back.

United's first summer under Ratcliffe will see a tight budget available due to the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR) meaning clever and savvy business will be required. That reason alone is why we're unlikely to see a bid anywhere close to Everton's valuation.

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Since news broke that United had failed with their first attempt to sign Branthwaite, the candidates identified as alternatives has grown by the day. However, in the background, interest in OGC Nice defender Jean-Claire Todibo has continued to go under the radar.

The France international has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for some time. Ratcliffe's involvement at the club only provided more legs over a possible move due to his connection with Nice.

However, according to Fabrizio Romano, a deal for the 24-year-old to move to United is currently off and highly unlikely to happen this window due to UEFA rules.

In July 2023, the Trial Chamber of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (ICFC Trial Chamber) laid out new rules that would affect multi-ownership clubs. The rule stated that 'no club owns or trades, directly or indirectly, in securities or shares of any other club participating in a UEFA club