A FRENCH student who was stabbed to death outside a trendy London hip hop nightclub just hours before Beyonce was due to visit has been named.

Sede Makaya, 24, was murdered on Tuesday night after he was involved in a fight inside Kabaret's Prophecy, on Upper John Street, in Soho.

Club security asked Mr Makaya and several others to leave after the incident.

The argument continued outside on the street close to the club at about 1.14am.

US pop star Beyonce was stopped by police when she arrived to find the club had been cordoned off.

Police are now trying to trace clubbers in the busy West End club who may have seen the attack.

DI Steve Wheatley said: "This was a tragic loss of life for a young man out on what was to be an enjoyable night.

"There were a number of people outside the club that night and the area was busy.

"I would urge anyone who was there that night to come forward and speak with us."

Police are trying to trace a black man, with a shaved head, in connection with the murder.

The nightclub's website said it was the "ultimate, luxury play den".

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 7321 7228, or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.