‘Deal done’ – West Ham complete Man Utd and Newcastle United £35m transfer hijack
This weekend, the Hammers have officially added a major new player.
By beating off Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea to the much sought-after 24-year-old defender Jean-Clair Todibo from OGC Nice, West Ham has pulled off another huge summer transfer coup.
As Julen Lopetegui gets ready for his first season as the club’s manager, the London Stadium has seen an astonishing window of action thus far. The goal of rejuvenating an ageing defence has always been top priority, and it appears that this goal will soon be accomplished with the signing of Max Kilman for £40 million from Wolves and the impending completion of a deal for Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Manchester United.
Todibo has been linked to West Ham for the whole summer, but the Hammers seemed to lag behind the Blues and Red Devils. But things have changed recently regarding the transfer scandal, as West Ham announced on Saturday that Todibo had signed.
With the opportunity to sign a permanent contract for an estimated £34 million in a year, the footballer initially joins the London Stadium on a season-long loan. In Ligue 1 last season, Todibo made 30 appearances.
A year prior, in regards to the defender, veteran Premier League player and former Arsenal player Aaron Ramsey stated of his former Nice colleague: “Jean-Clair is a very interesting character; he’s very confident and he’s a great guy around the dressing room and he’s a very, very talented player, who can go all the way to the top.” It’s critical for him to maintain his groundedness, aim higher, and absorb as much knowledge as he can.”
According to numerous reports, Manchester United and Juventus are the two teams vying for Todibo’s signature. Due to UEFA’s multi-club regulations, a transfer to Old Trafford was complicated. Additionally, according to GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle United had begun negotiations with the player this summer.
“I am really excited to be signing for West Ham United,” Todibo said in a statement following his signing. Being a player in the world’s greatest league, the Premier League, is a dream come true.
“I have a great opportunity here at a very ambitious club that hopes to advance significantly under the new head coach. With a fantastic and devoted fan base, West Ham is located in the heart of London, and now seems like the perfect moment to visit. I can’t wait to play in the Premier League at London Stadium wearing the West Ham shirt.