“Convinced Him to Join” – Dharmesh Sheth Reveals West Ham’s Key Figure in Securing Todibo Deal

West Ham United are nearing the official signing of OGC Nice centre-back Jean-Clair Todibo, with Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth reporting that the club’s technical director, Tim Steidten, played a crucial role in convincing the French defender to make the move to London.

During his first summer transfer window, West Ham’s manager, Julen Lopetegui, has made a positive start by bringing in players like Maximilian Kilman, Crysencio Summerville, and Niclas Fullkrug.

However, with the future of captain Kurt Zouma in doubt, Lopetegui is eager to secure another central defender as the club prepares for a critical Premier League campaign.

Steidten’s Extended Talks with Todibo Accelerated the Deal

Although Kilman’s arrival initially raised questions about whether West Ham would seek further reinforcements for their defense, particularly in central defense, uncertainty surrounding Zouma and Nayef Aguerd has prompted Lopetegui and his management team to move closer to finalizing a deal for the 24-year-old Todibo.

Fabrizio Romano, a trusted source, has reported that West Ham successfully outmaneuvered Juventus, who were also interested in Todibo, by offering a loan deal with an obligation to buy, valued at around €40 million. The deal also includes a sell-on clause.

Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth emphasized Steidten’s key role in advancing the deal, revealing that Todibo’s medical in London is imminent.

Steidten held extensive talks with Todibo over the last 24 hours, convincing the player to join West Ham.

“Jean-Clair Todibo is traveling to London with West Ham’s technical director Tim Steidten. The medical will begin shortly.

It’s understood that Steidten held lengthy talks with Todibo in the last 24 hours and convinced him to make the move,” Sheth reported.

Previously, Juventus was leading the race for the talented Cayenne-born defender, according to Romano.

However, Steidten’s persuasive discussions swayed Todibo towards a Premier League move, where he is now expected to replace Zouma at the heart of West Ham’s defense.

Kurt Zouma’s tenure at West Ham appears to be nearing its end. David Ornstein of The Athletic recently reported that Zouma, whose contract expires next summer, is close to joining Al-Ahli in Dubai.

Wan-Bissaka Transfer Hits Snag

In addition to Todibo, West Ham is also targeting Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka to strengthen their defense.

While Vladimir Coufal has been a standout performer, Wan-Bissaka’s Premier League experience and exceptional tackling ability make him an appealing option.

However, a report from MailOnline has indicated that negotiations for Wan-Bissaka are facing challenges due to his current demands.

Since joining Manchester United in 2019 for £50 million, Wan-Bissaka has made nearly 200 appearances.

His representatives are pressing Manchester United to grant him a portion of the transfer fee.

While Lopetegui and his team are willing to pay £18 million for Wan-Bissaka, there are complications surrounding his £90,000-per-week wage demands.

Although Wan-Bissaka is open to joining West Ham, he remains determined to secure a deal that reflects his value, especially given that he is still regarded as one of the Premier League’s top right-backs.

Despite these hurdles, West Ham continues to pursue their summer transfer targets, aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.