Jean-Clair Todibo: Nice defender ready for West Ham United medical

Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo will undergo a medical on Friday at West Ham United, who are hoping to beat Juventus in the battle for the Frenchman’s signature.

The Hammers have agreed an initial season-long loan deal for Todibo, which includes an option to buy worth €40m (£34.22m) in 2025.

Juventus were the main contenders to sign the 24-year-old, but the Italians have struggled to reach an agreement with Nice.

While a move to the London Stadium is not yet a certainty, it would be a significant move for the Hammers to beat Juventus as the Italian club can offer Champions League football.

Manchester United wanted to sign Todibo earlier this summer, but UEFA blocked this due to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s involvement with Nice, which would have breached associated party transactions rules.

Todibo came through the youth ranks of Toulouse before joining Barcelona in 2019. After loan spells at Schalke and Benfica, he joined Nice permanently in 2021.

The Hammers have been one of the most proactive clubs this summer, with sporting director Tim Steidten keen to reshape the squad following the departure of David Moyes.

The club have spent more than £100million since appointing new manager Julen Lopetegui as Moyes’ replacement.

They have signed Dutch striker Crysencio Summerville from Leeds, German striker Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund, midfielder Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras, defender Max Kilman from Wolves and Argentine midfielder Guido Rodriguez.