Todibo in action for West Ham 2026

Napoli target West Ham defender Jean-Clair Todibo after injury blow

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Jul 29, 2026, 9:53 am
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Image: IMAGO / Every Second Media

Napoli have identified West Ham United defender Jean-Clair Todibo as a potential defensive reinforcement as the Serie A club step up plans to replace the injured Alessandro Buongiorno.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the French centre-back has been added to Napoli's shortlist alongside Juventus defender Federico Gatti, Chelsea's Benoît Badiashile and Lecce youngster Tiago Gabriel.

While Todibo is firmly under consideration, Napoli have yet to begin formal talks with either the player or West Ham.

Todibo among Napoli's defensive targets

Massimiliano Allegri is keen to strengthen his defence before the transfer window closes following Buongiorno's injury.

Di Marzio reports that Todibo has emerged as one of several options being assessed, although Napoli are still evaluating which defender best fits their plans.

The Italian club are expected to make a move only after creating space in the squad through outgoing transfers.

At this stage, Todibo remains one of multiple candidates rather than Napoli's sole priority.

West Ham yet to receive approach

Despite the growing interest, there has been no official contact between Napoli and West Ham.

Todibo has previously attracted attention from Serie A clubs, making a return to Italy a realistic possibility should Napoli decide to accelerate negotiations.

The Hammers are currently waiting to see whether the Italian side turn their interest into a formal proposal.

Busy summer continues for Todibo

This is the latest chapter in an eventful transfer window for the French defender.

Todibo has recently been linked with Turkish side Fenerbahçe, while reports earlier this year claimed West Ham explored the possibility of including him in a swap deal involving AC Milan striker Santiago Giménez.

Neither move materialised, leaving the 26-year-old at the London Stadium ahead of the new season.

Napoli's interest has now placed the defender back on the radar of one of Serie A's biggest clubs.

What this means

Napoli are keeping their options open as they search for defensive reinforcements, with Todibo now emerging as a genuine candidate. However, the Serie A side are unlikely to make a decisive move until player departures create room in Allegri's squad.

Key points

  • Napoli have added Jean-Clair Todibo to their defensive shortlist.
  • The West Ham defender is being considered alongside Federico Gatti, Benoît Badiashile and Tiago Gabriel.
  • No formal talks have started with West Ham.
  • Napoli must complete outgoing transfers before signing another centre-back.
  • Todibo has attracted interest from several clubs this summer.

What's next?

Napoli are expected to continue assessing their defensive options while working on player departures. Once space is created within the squad, the Italian club could decide whether to open negotiations with West Ham for Todibo.

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