West Ham United have set a €17.5m (£14.9m) price tag on centre‑back Jean‑Claude Todibo as Napoli intensify their pursuit this summer. The 26‑year‑old, who arrived on a loan‑to‑buy deal last season, has struggled to justify the £32‑8‑36m cost and is now listed for a sizeable loss.
Why is Todibo on the market?
The French defender featured in just 29 and 25 league games across two campaigns at the London Stadium, far below expectations for a player bought for a seven‑figure fee. Reports suggest he wants an escape route, and West Ham have signalled they prefer a permanent sale over another loan, effectively blocking Marseille’s interest. The club’s recent big‑money sales of Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes give them leeway to absorb the hit.
How does Napoli fit into the picture?
Napoli, now under Massimiliano Allegri after Antonio Conte’s departure, lack depth at centre‑back. With Alessandro Buongiorno nursing a long‑term injury and Luca Marianucci’s future uncertain, Todibo could either start as a backup or fight for a first‑team spot. Allegri’s flexible tactics, alternating between back three and four, may suit the Frenchman’s style, offering a fresh start after a muted West Ham spell.
What does the valuation mean for West Ham?
At €17.5m, the Hammers would record a loss of roughly £17‑18m on the deal, but the cash could be redirected toward strengthening other areas. The club finished the 2025 Premier League in 18th place with 39 points, recording a 10‑9‑19 record and a recent form of WLLLW. They conceded 65 goals while scoring 46, sitting 46 points behind leaders Arsenal. Offloading Todibo may free up wages and allow reinvestment as West Ham aim to climb the table.
What are the next steps?
Napoli are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, and a bid could materialise before the transfer window closes. West Ham have indicated they will not entertain a loan move, so any agreement must be a permanent transfer. Should the deal go through, Todibo will leave the London Stadium and could become a key figure in Allegri’s defensive plans, while West Ham redirect funds toward their rebuilding project.
