The most likely answer to me is it's either or with Gabriel. That either Everton or Barcelona are using the links to either pressure Lille or flush out other bidders for Todibo.
However a world does exist where we might sign both. We seem to be linked with a lot of centre backs and of quite different profiles (consider Thiago Silva). It could be that the manager is after 2. I also saw the Dutch lad from Alkmaar we were linked with, who can also play in midfield. I wonder if thats part of the thinking as well, getting people who can play in more than 1 position to help us have some depth in the squad?
The other factor in this, is that Gabriel has supposedly played at left back, we know Holgate can play at right back, both can play in midfield as can Todibo. Ityt may be that rather than buying in a full back we have half an eye on Holgate going out there if Kenny doesn't take his chance. Kenny's value will have plunged and there are in a tricky situation with him, with 2 years left on his deal, but maybe starting with him, seeing how he gets on but having in the back of your mind Holgate can slot in has to be a consideration. I think Holgate is a good footballer and can play well in a number of positions. Playing more centre backs across the back will also likely give us some stability and a platform that allows us to maybe be a little more offensive in midfield.
I also think Todibo and Gabriel are different. Todibo is still very raw, a bit behind Gabriel, but probably a higher ceiling. Gabriel probably has a lower ceiling but is more developed currently.
It would mean either Keane or Mina leaves. I hope it's Keane. I said last night online I actually think there would be a deceptive number of takers for him. I think Spurs, with less money, under Mourinho next to Sanchez could really fancy him. Brighton replacing Dunk, Leicester replacing Evans (Keane would be really good next to the Turkish lad).
I think Mina should get another go. I really like Mina but he's been disappointing to me even with last seasons improvement. However I do believe in giving people time and I think, with the profile of defender we are talking about below him he could kick on a notch. He would need to step up as a leader of the defence, but he may relish that. I mean it's a long shot but in some games a back 4 of those 4 lads would be very imposing. Digne is no slouch either, but you effectively cover him with a CB and we essentially adapt the way we play a little. It gives Iwobi/Bernard more freedom in front of them.
As a final aside, I wonder how much of this is opportunism. A player we've liked, who's done well in Germany has had 25% knocked off his price. In general most reported figures for players we've negotiated down under Brands. They may be able to get him for under £15m and Brands just feels it's too good a price to wlak away from, seeing the upside.
