West Ham United is in advanced discussions to secure a deal for central defender Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice, amid interest from top clubs like Manchester United and Juventus. The Hammers had previously reached an agreement for a loan deal that included an option to buy for €32 million (£27 million) earlier this summer.
Recent reports suggest that Todibo had been hesitant, potentially waiting for Juventus to finalize their ongoing negotiations with Nice. However, those talks have yet to reach a conclusion, prompting West Ham to seize the opportunity to pursue the player once again. Options under consideration include a loan deal with an obligation to buy, as well as a permanent transfer.
The player’s decision will ultimately determine the outcome, provided West Ham can reach a full agreement with Nice. Todibo is currently under contract for another three years.
The need for a central defender has become increasingly urgent for West Ham, especially with Kurt Zouma expected to undergo a medical ahead of a transfer to UAE club Shabab Al-Ahli.
While there was prior interest from Manchester United in Todibo, a transfer is deemed improbable due to an agreement between the two clubs preventing player transfers to maintain competitive integrity in UEFA competitions.
As the summer transfer window approaches its deadline, clubs are racing against the clock. The 2024 summer transfer window officially closes on August 30 at 11pm UK time in the Premier League and 11:30pm in Scotland, marking a key date for all clubs looking to strengthen their squads. The Premier League has synchronized its Deadline Day with other major European leagues following discussions to unify closing dates across England, Germany, Italy, Spain, and France.
