Amina UmarWest Ham United are set to accelerate their pursuit of Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo, with Aston Villa also expressing interest in the Frenchman. According to Foot Mercato, the Hammers are facing competition from Villa, another unknown English club, and teams abroad for the 24-year-old’s signature.
With the Euro 2024 championships coming to a close and pre-season training underway across Europe, a deal for Todibo is expected to be fast-tracked. Nice are reportedly keen to sell the defender, with Todibo himself eager to begin preparations with a new club as soon as possible.While the transfer fee for Todibo has not been disclosed, it is believed that any team interested in signing him will need to make a significant investment.
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui is keen to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the new season, and Todibo is seen as a top target.The Hammers have already signed Max Kilman from Wolves, who is expected to slot in as the left-sided centre-back option. However, Lopetegui is still on the hunt for further reinforcements, with Todibo high on his list.A potential swap deal involving Kurt Zouma has also been mooted, which could see the West Ham captain move to Nice as part of the agreement.
However, this could be complicated by Aston Villa’s interest, with Unai Emery’s side able to offer Champions League football – a significant pull factor for Todibo.West Ham’s lack of European competition this season may make it harder for them to attract top talent like Todibo, but the club is still confident of getting the deal done. A move for Todibo would be a major coup for the Hammers, and would significantly bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season.
In other transfer news, West Ham have also been linked with a move for Elye Wahi, as Lopetegui continues to shape his squad ahead of the new campaign. With the transfer window heating up, West Ham fans can expect plenty of activity in the coming weeks.
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