Transfer rumours: Todibo to Bayern, Gilchrist loan decision, Firmino to Al Ettifaq
The former Barcelona protege has quickly become one of the hottest defensive properties on the market, having played his part in an impressive nine Ligue 1 clean sheets this season.
Man United have long been regarded the leading contenders for his signature, and there is hope that new investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe — who also owns Nice — could help to facilitate a deal.
However, FootballTransfers claims that Bayern have also joined the race to sign Todibo, whose contract at the Allianz Riviera runs for another three-and-a-half-years until the summer of 2027.
A January move is not expected to materialise, especially with Bayern already bringing in Eric Dier this month, but an intense battle for Todibo's signature could materialise in the summer months.
Bayern's pursuit of Todibo could also have a knock-on effect on the future of Matthijs de Ligt, whose long-term future at the Allianz Arena is being called into question amid links with Man United.
Speaking of defenders going nowhere this month, Chelsea have reportedly ruled out the possibility of a loan exit for Alfie Gilchrist in the January window.
The 20-year-old — who has been with the Blues for a decade — has made his first-team breakthrough under Mauricio Pochettino, making five appearances in the 2023-24 campaign.
Gilchrist has come off the bench in each of Chelsea's last three Premier League fixtures, while he also made his first start for the club in their 4-0 FA Cup thrashing of Preston North End on January 6.
Gilchrist — who has played as a right-back during his earliest days in the first team — remains low down in the Blues pecking order,
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