Jean-Clair Todibo ended up staying at OGC Nice despite claims of Manchester United interest towards the end of the last window.
Three days ago, the defender made his debut for France in their friendly loss to Germany.
L’Equipe have since interviewed him, and during the chat he explained that impressing for the Ligue 1 side this season will improve his chances of making it the national squad for the Euros next summer.
The 23-year-old also revealed that he had considered making a switch to a ‘top club’.
“I’m not going to lie and say that I didn’t have the thought to tell myself that perhaps I should play in a ‘top club’ to increase my chances [of playing for France], but there are also guarantees when playing at Nice,” he said.
Last month, Nice president Jean-Pierre Rivère said that his side’s desire was to retain the centre-back, and this is now backed up by the player himself.
L’Equipe then specifically asked the former Barcelona man about the reports linking him to Manchester United and how he experienced it.
“I experienced it differently from my previous situations in my career. My thinking was much more in-depth, thoughtful. I didn’t want to make a mistake in my choice. I remained very calm,” Todibo explained.
“Reflection is much more important than when I started. I’m waiting to be presented with the complete project. What is expected of me? Why am I coming? You shouldn’t arrive at a club like that. I know what I have at Nice. Why go into the unknown? So, everything must be clear. My first transfer, I was 18 years old. The thinking was not as thorough.”
Manchester United reportedly wanted to replace Harry Maguire with Tobido, but the England international staying at Old Trafford means it’s unlikely a serious effort was made in the end, despite the player suggesting he turned it down.
