Schalke have bolstered their defensive options with the signing of Jean-Clair Todibo, the French youth international arriving on loan from Barcelona until the end of the season.

Todibo, a 6'3" centre-back who can also play in midfield, has featured four times for Barcelona's first team since joining the Catalan club from Toulouse in January 2019.

"During talks with the club's management team I became convinced by their project of pursuing success with young players," Todibo told the official Schalke website. "That's why I decided to come here."

Injuries to Salif Sane and Benjamin Stambouli have restricted Schalke coach David Wagner's defensive options this season, with six players - including midfielders Weston McKennie and Omar Mascarell - having been tried at centre-back already this term.

"Jean-Clair is one of the best young centre-backs in Europe right now," said head coach David Wagner. "As Stambouli's recovery will take a bit longer than expected, it makes sense to have another central defender on board, and he can also play in defensive midfield. We'll give him all the support he needs to further develop the potential he clearly has. We're very much looking forward to it."

The 20-year-old becomes the second player to join Schalke on loan from Barcelona in 2019/20, following left-back Juan Miranda, who arrived in August.

Todibo could make his debut as soon as Friday, when the Royal Blues kick off the Rückrunde at home to second-place Borussia Mönchengladbach.

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