Jean-Clair Todibo joins RC Lens on loan from West Ham

Jean-Clair Todibo has joined French Ligue 1 club RC Lens on a season-long loan from West Ham United. The 26-year-old defender described the move as an ‘obvious choice’ because the French league allows for easier integration due to his ability to speak the language.

Todibo’s tenure at West Ham was marked by significant friction. Following the club's relegation, his time in London included physical altercations with manager Julen Lopetegui and disagreements with Graham Potter regarding training discipline. His departure was accelerated after a dispute with Nuno Espirito Santo, whom Todibo reportedly told he would ‘never play for him again’ following a substitution during a match against Newcastle.

Before settling at Lens, Todibo was linked with moves to Serie A sides Juventus and Atalanta, as well as a collapsed loan move to Marseille due to their financial constraints. He has already made his debut for Lens, appearing as a substitute in a 2-2 draw against Le Mans.