“West Ham Lead Race for French Star Jean-Clair Todibo Despite Juventus and Man United Interest”
West Ham will sign the French star on a temporary one-season deal, with an option to buy for €32 million.
Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Todibo has been offered a contract extending until 2029/2030 by the Premier League club, but the center-back has yet to decide where he wants to play next season.
Todibo’s agents are still negotiating with Juventus, but the Serie A club is unwilling to meet the €32 million asking price.
This situation has allowed West Ham to take the lead in the race for the center-back, though it remains uncertain if they can finalize the deal in the coming weeks.
Manchester United was also interested in Todibo earlier this summer, but The Telegraph reports that the Manchester club was blocked from signing the 24-year-old due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, as INEOS has stakes in both European clubs.
Todibo was likely headed to Old Trafford this summer but now needs to choose a different path for his career.
Why do West Ham want Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo?
Julen Lopetegui aims to bolster West Ham’s defense for the 2024/25 season, as it was a significant issue last season, with David Moyes’ side being one of the weakest in the Premier League.
Todibo would be an excellent choice to strengthen the Irons’ backline, having been a top defender in France since joining Nice in 2021.
The 24-year-old is athletic, strong, and skilled in 1v1 situations. His style fits the Premier League and would enable Lopetegui to push his defense higher up the field, relying on Todibo’s recovery speed.
Todibo’s future should become clearer in the coming weeks as West Ham and Juventus continue efforts to sign the French star.