West Ham are now closing in on £34m player that Paul Mitchell wanted at Newcastle

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As Newcastle United continue their quest to sign a centre-back, West Ham are bringing in one of their own.

The Magpies are currently trying to complete a deal for Marc Guehi, with the 24-year-old keen to leave Crystal Palace and head to St James’ Park.

Guehi wants to sign for Newcastle, and there is hope that an agreement can be reached. It could be a club record deal, with Newcastle’s first offer of almost £65million being rejected.

The England international will be a very exciting signing if Toon officials can get a deal done, but he is not the only centre-back that has been on the Magpies’ radar this summer.

Newcastle looked at other centre-backs before Marc Guehi

There has also been interest in Malick Thiaw, while Jean-Clair Todibo was briefly a target.

Geordie Boot Boys were recently told that Toon sporting director Paul Mitchell held talks with Todibo’s representatives. However, negotiations did not progress, with not everyone at Newcastle convinced about signing the French defender.

The 24-year-old has been dreaming of a move to Juventus, and it looked like Todibo’s dream was going to come true. That is despite interest from West Ham, who have also been trying to bring the Nice centre-back to the Premier League.

Jean-Clair Todibo set for West Ham medical

For a long time, it has looked like Todibo would be heading to Juventus. However, the situation has now changed.

According to the Athletic’s David Ornstein, West Ham have swooped in to hijack Juventus’ move for Todibo.

He reports that West Ham have agreed a loan deal with an option to buy, while Todibo has also agreed personal terms with the Hammers.

The Frenchman is now set to undergo a medical with West Ham today (Friday, 9th August).

It has also been claimed by Fabrizio Romano that West Ham’s option to buy Todibo is worth £34million.

Newcastle fearing their own hijack

It is an astonishing transfer, as West Ham continue to make serious moves ahead of the new Premier League season.

It could be a busy end to the summer for Julen Lopetegui’s side, with West Ham also linked with Kieran Trippier.

But when it comes to Todibo, Newcastle will not be concerned that a player they held talks with is set to sign for a Premier League rival.

The Magpies’ main concern is avoiding a similar situation, amid fears that their Marc Guehi approach could be hijacked. Danny Murphy has predicted that Liverpool will bid for Guehi, although that does feel unlikely at this stage.

But never say never, and that is why Newcastle will be keen to complete the signing of Guehi as soon as possible.