West Ham have £25m bid ‘rejected’ following Newcastle United links and Sir Jim Ratcliffe complaints

The Hammers, under new boss Julen Lopetegui, are reportedly looking for ways to strengthen their defensive options and had been linked with a move for Wolves defender Max Kilman - someone Lopetegui worked with during his brief time at Molineux. However, with Wolves reluctant to see their club captain leave, West Ham could turn their attention towards Todibo.

L’Equipe report that Nice have rejected a bid, worth around £25m for Todibo from the Hammers, however, with the Irons needing to up their offer in order to tempt them into selling the 24-year-old. Todibo enjoyed a good season with Nice last campaign, playing 30 times in the league as he helped the division’s best defence register a 5th place finish and secure qualification for next season’s Europa League.

However, it is their qualification for the Europa League why West Ham - and Newcastle United for that matter - have been handed a boost in their hopes of signing Todibo this summer. That’s because Manchester United, who also hold an interest in the defender, will be unable to sign him due to their connection with Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Ratcliffe’s company INEOS own the French side, whilst also holding a minority stake in the Red Devils. UEFA rules prevent related-party transfers taking place between two clubs competing in the same competition - meaning Todibo will be unable to join Manchester United whilst both clubs are competing in the Europa League and under the influence of Ratcliffe.

Speaking about that rule to Bloomberg, Ratcliffe said: “They’ve said we can sell him to another Premiership club, but we can't sell to Manchester United. But that's not fair on the player and I don’t see what that achieves.”

With Todibo a no-go for the Red Devils, they will reportedly turn their attentions towards signing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer - although the Toffees are reluctant to let the former Carlisle United man leave Goodison Park. Mathijs de Ligt is also someone that has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer.