“Lopetegui Aims for Defensive Overhaul at West Ham with Potential Double Signing”
West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui is keen to strengthen the team’s defense before the Premier League season begins. The former Wolves boss has already made progress, with reports indicating that 27-year-old Max Kilman is close to signing a contract with the club [Fabrizio Romano, 5 July].
However, Lopetegui’s plans don’t stop there. He is also considering adding another high-profile defender, Jean-Clair Todibo, to the squad [Evening Standard, 2 July]. Todibo, who plays for Nice, has been linked with a move to Manchester United, but a recent update from Old Trafford could give West Ham an advantage.
ESPN journalist Rob Dawson reported on X (5 July) that Manchester United has agreed not to sign any players from Nice until September 2025 due to a new UEFA ruling. This removes one of the biggest competitors for Todibo’s signature, not just for this summer but also for both transfer windows in 2025.
While it remains uncertain if West Ham will make a new bid after their initial offer was rejected, they now have a significant opportunity to secure Todibo ahead of their rivals.
Hopefully, with this latest development, Tim Steidten and his recruitment team can start crafting an enhanced bid to ensure the French international joins Kilman at the London Stadium this summer.
With these two additions, Lopetegui would achieve his goal of a revamped defense, giving West Ham a backline capable of improving their Premier League standings under their new manager next season.