Aston Villa Open Talks With West Ham Over Jean-Clair Todibo
Aston Villa have begun discussions with West Ham United over a potential deal for Jean-Clair Todibo as Unai Emery looks to reinforce his defensive options before the transfer window closes.
The 26-year-old French international has emerged as a serious target following Villa’s setback in their pursuit of Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez. However, Southampton centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis is still understood to be the club’s preferred defensive signing.
Villa had reportedly agreed a deal to bring Ordonez to the club on loan, with an obligation or option for a permanent transfer worth around £30 million. Crystal Palace have since overtaken them in the race and are believed to have reached an agreement for the Ecuadorian defender.
That development has forced Aston Villa to explore alternative options, with Todibo now becoming an increasingly realistic possibility.
Villa Make Contact Over Todibo
According to TEAMtalk, Aston Villa have held direct talks with West Ham to understand what would be required to complete a permanent transfer for Todibo.
The defender’s future at the London Stadium appears increasingly uncertain, with reports suggesting he no longer wants to play under West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
That situation could potentially give Villa an opening during the final stages of the transfer window. Todibo, who previously played for Barcelona and Nice, has considerable experience at both domestic and European level and could provide Emery with an immediate, high-quality option in central defence.
However, Aston Villa are not alone in their interest. Marseille are also monitoring Todibo’s situation and could yet make a move for the Frenchman.
Harwood-Bellis Still Villa’s First Choice
Despite opening discussions over Todibo, Aston Villa have not given up on Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
The Southampton defender remains their number-one target, and negotiations between the two clubs are continuing. While there is still a gap between Villa’s valuation and Southampton’s asking price, talks remain active and neither side has walked away from negotiations.
Villa, the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League winners, have already made several attempts to sign Harwood-Bellis, but Southampton have maintained a firm stance regarding their valuation.
As the transfer deadline approaches, Aston Villa now have two major defensive options on the table. Missing out on Ordonez was undoubtedly a setback, but Todibo represents a strong and experienced alternative.
At 26, the French international is entering the peak years of his career and brings valuable Premier League and European experience. His reported desire to leave West Ham could also strengthen Villa’s position in negotiations.
For now, Harwood-Bellis remains Emery’s preferred choice. But if Southampton refuse to lower their demands, Aston Villa’s pursuit of Todibo could quickly move from preliminary talks to a muc+h more serious transfer attempt.