West Ham star pens 39-word social media post ahead of permanent summer switch
Jean-Clair Todibo Set for Permanent West Ham Move After Loan Spell
Jean-Clair Todibo will officially join West Ham United on a permanent basis this summer, in line with the agreement made when he initially joined on loan from Nice last year.
Following the conclusion of the Premier League season, Todibo shared a message with West Ham fans as he prepares to make his switch to the London Stadium permanent.
The 25-year-old has played a key role during his loan, making 27 appearances in a challenging campaign. He also featured in the club’s final eight league games under head coach Graham Potter, starting all of them.
Previously linked with Manchester United, the French defender instead opted for a loan move to West Ham. A product of Toulouse’s academy, Todibo broke into senior football in France before a high-profile move to Barcelona in 2019.
Todibo Thanks Fans Ahead of Permanent Move
West Ham secured Todibo’s services last summer with a loan deal that included a mandatory purchase clause, triggered by the club’s survival in the top flight.
The agreed fee with Nice is said to be £36.3 million. With Premier League status confirmed in April, the transfer will now be finalized in the coming weeks, marking a major signing for the club.
Todibo played the full match in West Ham’s 3-1 season finale against Ipswich Town, leaving the pitch in stoppage time. After the game, he took to Instagram, writing:
“Ending the season with a win always feels good. It might not be the position I was hoping for in my first year here, but we’ll come back even stronger next season. Huge thanks to everyone for the support!”
Manager and Player Praise Each Other
Although Graham Potter wasn’t in charge when the deal was made, he has spoken positively about Todibo’s contribution.
“He had a tough start, arriving late in pre-season and picking up injuries. A lot changed last summer, which made it harder for new arrivals.
But I’ve really enjoyed working with JC—he has real top-level ability and will improve as his fitness grows,” Potter said earlier this year.
Todibo has also praised Potter’s influence, sharing his thoughts in an interview with the club’s website before an April clash with Brighton.
“Football is about small details—and mistakes.
We’ve made some errors, like conceding late goals against Southampton and Liverpool. Still, since the new manager arrived, we’ve seen a lot of positives,” he said.
“Results haven’t always reflected our performances, but our progress is clear.
With the manager and staff staying, and a few adjustments, we can have a big season next year.
We’ve been frustrated, yes, but the direction is promising. Compared to the start of the season, we’ve made big strides.”
