West Ham United are preparing to part ways with Nayef Aguerd this summer, with Marseille stepping up their interest in the Moroccan centre-back. The deal could mark another key departure as Graham Potter begins shaping his squad for the season ahead.
Aguerd, who joined the Irons for £30 million in 2022, has struggled for consistency and game time since arriving in east London.
Marseille Looking to Ligue 1 Familiarity
French outlet L’Équipe reports that Marseille are prioritising Aguerd as part of their defensive rebuild. With Champions League football on the horizon, the Ligue 1 side are targeting experience, and Aguerd’s previous spell with Rennes fits the profile.
A return to France looks realistic, though not straightforward. The Hammers are said to want a strong fee, and the defender’s wages are proving difficult to match. A loan with an option or obligation to buy is on the table.
Read: Juventus Boss Responds to Aguerd Links
Spell at Sociedad Fails to Reignite Career
Aguerd spent last season at Real Sociedad but was left out of nine of their final ten La Liga squads. The loan didn’t provide the fresh start many had hoped for.
Across the 2023/24 campaign, the 29-year-old recorded the following numbers (Fotmob):
- Tackle success: 53.8%
- Duels won: 61.5%
- Aerial duels won: 59.3%
While composed on the ball, his physical style hasn’t quite matched the demands of English football.
West Ham Set for Defensive Shake-Up
Aguerd is viewed as one of several players the club are willing to move on. Potter is looking to refresh the back line, and that means letting go of names who haven’t quite worked out.
WestHamZone.com report that figures at the club now consider the Aguerd deal a misstep. If Marseille can find a structure that suits all sides, West Ham are ready to move him on.
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