German side Schalke 04 are in pole position to acquire Barcelona’s Jean Clair-Todibo.
Barcelona are having a rather eventful winter transfer window on the selling side. The latest name rumored for an exit is that of Jean-Clair Todibo.
The young French defender had been rumored with a possible move to AC Milan with representatives of the club meeting with the player in Barcelona.
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However, talks have stalled between them have stalled with Milan reportedly “losing patience.”
Their loss may be Schalke’s gain as the Bundesliga side have jumped ahead in the race to sign Todibo.
According to Sport, Schalke’s sporting director, Jochn Schneider traveled to Barcelona to convince Todibo to join his side.
Todibo has been very careful during this process in making sure he chooses the team that will be best for his development.
It is one of the reasons as to why he is unconvinced by the Milan proposal.
Should he opt for Schalke, it would be for a six-month loan.
His goal continues to be to succeed at Barcelona but knows that he needs to play more.
He has not been given much of an opportunity by Ernesto Valverde this season but has responded well when given a chance. His performance against Inter Milan in the Champions League being the most noteworthy example.
Todibo is currently with the club in Saudi Arabia as they prepare for their Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid. If Valverde decides to make any rotations, he may get some playing time.
The Catalans signed Todibo last year from French side Toulouse and was seen as a signing for the future. But as is so often the case with many of the team’s young players, he isn’t getting any playing time and needs to find a team where he can further develop. As of now, it looks like Schalke will be that team.