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Watford signing this talented 19-year-old would make for a solid bargain in January

Why Watford should revive their interest in Jean-Clair Todibo

Back in June, Watford Observer reported that Jean-Clair Todibo had rejected a move to the Premier League, following Watford’s interest in the centre-back.

Todibo was promoted to Toulouse’s senior team back in July 2018 and he joined Barcelona on a free transfer in January 2019.

Despite initial struggles and a career-threatening injury to his knees after a car accident, Todibo made quick strides and went on to perform well for the youth sides.

Jean-Clair Todibo
Jean-Clair Todibo (R) (Getty Images)

The 19-year-old made a quick move to Barcelona but he has featured in just two La Liga games this season. He hasn’t been regular and is also not eligible to play for Barca in the Champions League.

Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet are Barcelona’s first-choice centre-backs. Samuel Umtiti’s return to fitness has essentially closed the doors on playing time that Todibo might have received.

With a big squad under Ernesto Valverde, the club are looking to trim the squad and are willing to sell Todibo to Bayer Leverkusen in January, according to reports.

Jean-Clair Todibo
Jean-Clair Todibo (L) (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Watford, who were keen to sign the player earlier, should reignite their interest in the Frenchman to improve their defensive records this season.

Quique Sanchez Flores’ side are currently battling to come out of the relegation zone this season. Their defence has been vulnerable and they need to improve massively.

Though Watford have some experienced centre-backs in their ranks, they have not struck the right chords so far. In just 13 games so far, they have conceded 26 goals.

Conceding nearly two per game is a huge concern and that is why getting their hands on Todibo would be the best way to save themselves from getting relegated to the second tier.

Jean-Clair Todibo
Jean-Clair Todibo (Getty Images)

Todibo has been very successful in France. According to Whoscored, in his 10 games for Toulouse last season, Todibo registered an average of 2.1 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 6.2 clearances per game. He seems to be a good passer of the ball with a passing average of 87.4% accuracy.

The French Guiana-born defender would add fresh legs to the Hornets’ squad. Quique Sanchez could use the youngster regularly since a taste of English football would help him scale greater heights.

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Verdict

Todibo’s potential knows no bounds and he could be Watford’s saviour if they secure his services.

In Todibo, Watford will have a versatile centre-back and thus, they must reignite interest and convince him to join their ranks.