France defender Jean-Clair Todibo has joined West Ham on a season-long loan from Nice, strengthening their center-back lineup as they get ready for the Premier League season.
The 24-year-old Todibo, who was with Barcelona when he was 19, has a contract that includes an option for West Ham to buy him for about 40 million euros ($43.6 million) after the 2025 season.
West Ham has also signed center back Max Kilman for around $50 million, German striker Niclas Füllkrug, and four other players.
With Julen Lopetegui taking over as the new coach, replacing David Moyes, Todibo expressed excitement about playing in the Premier League, calling it “a dream come true.”
“This is an amazing opportunity for me, at a club with huge ambition, who want to really make progress under the new head coach,” Todibo said.
West Ham’s new sporting director, Tim Steidten, highlighted Todibo’s experience and appeal.
“He’s got proven pedigree in European football, especially in France, where he has shone in recent years, showing all of his qualities as one of the finest ball-playing center-halves in Ligue 1,” Steidten said. “There was huge interest from across Europe for his signature this summer.”
