Last night, a fresh twist emerged in the transfer saga surrounding West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd: Championship outfit Sunderland have joined the race to sign the Moroccan international, according to journalist Santi Aouna.
This surprise development comes just hours after reports claimed Marseille were leading the chase for the 29-year-old. Now, the Black Cats have tossed their name into a crowded ring that already includes Marseille, AC Milan, AS Roma, and Real Sociedad.
Aguerd is still weighing up his options and has yet to decide his next move.
Marseille Were Frontrunners Until Sunderland Entered the Picture
Marseille had made Aguerd a top target for their summer rebuild under boss Roberto De Zerbi. With Chancel Mbemba and Luiz Felipe exiting, and defenders like Facundo Medina and CJ Egan-Riley already brought in, Aguerd was viewed as the final piece in the French club’s new-look backline.
But Sunderland’s entry into the race may throw a wrench into those plans and force Marseille to act faster or revise their strategy.
Sunderland’s Move Raises Eyebrows
Sunderland’s sudden interest in a European-level centre-back has caught more than a few fans off guard.
Aguerd, who’s featured regularly in top-level competitions and international tournaments, would represent a huge signing statement for a side still working to get back to the Premier League.
It remains to be seen whether Sunderland can seriously compete with European regulars like Milan and Roma, but their pursuit shows clear ambition. Even being listed among such clubs turns heads.
Milan, Roma and Real Sociedad Keeping Tabs
Aguerd is not short on options. AC Milan and Roma are monitoring the situation closely, with both Serie A sides believed to have outlined internal plans should West Ham open formal negotiations. Real Sociedad, meanwhile, could see Aguerd as a natural fit, given his La Liga experience before moving to London.
The growing interest across Europe signals that West Ham could soon be fielding multiple offers for the Moroccan.
Aguerd Taking His Time
Despite all the noise, Aguerd hasn’t made any firm decision on his future. Still under contract at West Ham until 2027, the centre-back isn’t rushing anything, and there’s been no public statement from him or the club about a potential exit.
As the window heats up and more clubs show their hand, the situation is certainly one to keep a close eye on.
Interesting Article: A West Ham Content Creator Is Facing Backlash After a Controversial Article
