SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has slammed Uefa over the collapse of Jean-Clair Todibo's proposed transfer from Nice.
Manchester United are long-term admirers of the centre-back.
But they will not be allowed to sign him due to Ratcliffe's ownership of Nice.
Uefa rules forbid players making transfers between clubs that play in the same competition who share the same owners - Ineos have a stake in Nice and United.
Ratcliffe is not a fan of the ruling as he believes it is unfair on Todibo, although he refused to name the Frenchman.
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The United chief told Bloomberg: “They’ve said we can sell him to another Premiership club, but we can't sell to Manchester United.
“But that's not fair on the player and I don’t see what that achieves.”
Todibo, 24, had been in talks over a transfer to United for several months.
But he could still make a move to the Premier League with Aston Villa a potential destination.
The Red Devils will have to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements and they have a number of targets in mind.
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Portugal and Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio has caught the eye after helping his team win the league last season.
While United have agreed personal terms with Jarrad Branthwaite but are yet to match Everton's £75million asking price.
