West Ham are poised to snap up Wolves centre-back Max Kilman for £40m, according to multiple reports.

The 27-year-old, who has also attracted interest from the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, is set to become the Hammers’ third signing of the summer, after Luis Guilherme and Wes Foderingham.

One of the peculiar aspects of the transfer, though, is that a substantial amount of the transfer fee won’t be going to Wolves.

Kilman was originally signed from Non-League side Maidenhead United. The fifth-tier club included a sell-on clause which could amount to 20% of the fee.

It means that the National League outfit could be set to receive a massive windfall of around £8m, which could transform the team’s fortunes.

West Ham have had to pay a premium to recruit a Lopetegui favourite

It’s now clear why Wolves were negotiating so hard to get the highest fee possible for Kilman. The Irons had two bids rejected for the defender before they finally agreed on a price.

Manager Julen Lopetegui was said to be determined to secure the player’s signature, having worked with him for almost a year during his time in charge at Molineux.

Kilman is likely to be the only centre-back signed

West Ham have also been locked in talks with Nice for Jean-Clair Todibo. Earlier this week, it was reported that the club had a £25m bid rejected for the Frenchman.

After the expected arrival of Kilman, though, it is unlikely that another offer will be lodged for Todibo, but a deal could still be revisited before the end of the summer depending on departures.

Captain Kurt Zouma is in the last year of his contract and he will be sold if the Hammers receive a satisfactory offer. Nayef Aguerd is also available for transfer.