West Ham United could reportedly accept around €17million to €20m for Jean-Clair Todibo as Atalanta become the latest club to pursue the defender.
Todibo’s future has been uncertain throughout the summer after West Ham’s relegation and his breakdown in relations with Nuno Espírito Santo.
There is now another potential route out of the London Stadium. Italian outlet TuttoAtalanta reports that Atalanta have identified Todibo as a leading option to replace Berat Djimsiti, who is expected to leave for Saudi Arabia.
Jean-Clair Todibo wanted by Atalanta
Atalanta’s interest adds another significant name to the competition for Todibo.
Juventus are also pursuing the 26-year-old and are currently described as slightly ahead in the race. Cristiano Giuntoli, now working at Atalanta, already knows Todibo well after previously trying to bring him to Juventus from Nice.
The most striking element for West Ham is the reported price.
TuttoAtalanta claims the Hammers do not consider Todibo untouchable and that a fee between €17m and €20m could be enough to complete a deal. Sport Witness also relays that valuation and reports West Ham are prepared to sanction his departure.
That would underline how significantly Todibo’s situation has changed since joining West Ham permanently.
The Hammers have been actively reshaping their defence before the Championship campaign. ReadWestHam reported on Tuesday that the club were pursuing experienced Premier League defensive cover, with that search now moving towards the expected arrival of Joel Veltman.
Todibo remains under contract, so West Ham are not forced to accept the first proposal that arrives.
However, with Atalanta joining Juventus and other Italian clubs in monitoring his situation, the Hammers may finally have enough interest to secure the permanent exit they have wanted throughout the summer.
