Todibo in London to sign for West Ham as last-gasp loan clause twist emerges

Jean-Clair Todibo has arrived in London as West Ham United close in on a loan-to-buy deal for the defender, according to Fabrice Hawkins.

The RMC Sport journalist posted on X (9 August) to report that the OGC Nice centre-back had touched down in the capital to complete his switch to the London Stadium, with a medical booked for Todibo.

Hawkins also reported that the Hammers in fact have a mandatory purchase option for the 24-year-old following an initial paid loan deal, with the sum total of the transfer set to cost £34.3million.

Previous reports had stated that the permanent purchase clause for Todibo was strictly optional [David Ornstein, 9 August], but Hawkins' update suggests that Nice will be set to receive their full £34.3m fee from the Irons in 2025.

West Ham set to secure Jean-Clair Todibo on permanent transfer

If the Irons do have an obligation to buy Todibo at the culmination of his season-long loan in 2024/25, the pressure is simultaneously both off and on the Hammers depending on his future performances.

Should the French international excel alongside a fellow new centre-back signing in Max Kilman, having a £34.2m fee to pay further down the line will feel like small change to the London Stadium hierarchy.

However, should his loan spell not go to plan – similar to that of Kalvin Phillips last season – the club will be wishing that the clause was indeed an optional one.

Being forced to shell out north of £34m on a player who has underperformed in the capital – particularly having been chased so fiercely by Julen Lopetegui – would not be the best situation for the Irons' board.

Given Todibo has been chased by both Manchester United and Juventus this summer [Alfredo Pedulla, 9 August], that will ramp up the pressure on both the player himself, and the Hammers' new manager in his maiden season in charge.

In other West Ham news, another Ligue 1 side are reportedly set to match the Hammers’ bid for one centre-back transfer.

For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.