Napoli’s defensive gamble: targeting West Ham’s Todibo

Napoli are reportedly interested in signing West Ham United defender Jean-Clair Todibo, 26, whose contract runs until 2029, after he has made 54 appearances for the London club and featured regularly in the Premier League over his two-year spell in England.

Napoli are searching for defensive reinforcements to cover the long-term absence of Alessandro Buongiorno, 27, who suffered a meniscus injury to his right knee and is set to undergo surgery. The Azzurri have listed the French defender among their options.

Chelsea’s Benoît Badiashile, 25, Juventus’ Federico Gatti, 28, and Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel, 21, are also on Napoli’s shortlist. Gabriel’s transfer fee is reported to remain very high.

Before adding new signings, Napoli must finalise a number of departures, having already seen six players leave this summer. Departures include Giovanni Simeone, 30, Juan Jesus, 35, and Alessandro Zanoli, 25.

If the move materialises, Todibo could soon be leaving England, ending his two-year spell at West Ham; Clair could soon be leaving England, ending his two-year spell at West Ham. His contract, which runs to 2029, would be terminated early.

Napoli’s ability to secure any of the targets depends on completing the pending exits, a prerequisite for new arrivals. The club hopes to resolve the squad overhaul before the transfer window closes.