West Ham United are reportedly locked in negotiations with Rennes over a potential summer move for Nayef Aguerd.
A recent report from 90 min has delivered an update on West Ham’s pursuit of Nayef Aguerd. The Londoners are currently in the market for a new central defender as David Moyes looks to shore up his options at the back. Aguerd is a long-term target for the club, with Moyes keen on wrapping up a deal in the near future.
It appears West Ham are currently locked in negotiations with Rennes over a potential deal for Aguerd in the summer. The two parties are close to reaching an agreement over the transfer fee, meaning the negotiations are going well for the Premier League outfit and we could soon see the 26-year-old at the London Stadium.
Formerly of Dijon, Aguerd has been one of the most consistent defenders at Rennes since joining the Ligue 1 outfit in the summer of 2020. With 80 competitive appearances for the club, he has become a defensive lynchpin for the club, forming a solid partnership alongside the likes of Loic Bade and Warmed Omari.
Aguerd’s composure at the back has helped Rennes flourish in the French top flight. Standing at 1.90m, the 26-year-old Moroccan international has also brought in the physical and aerial dominance one would expect from a top-class centre-back, while his ability to read the game has now made him one of the most sought-after defenders in Ligue 1.
The 26-year-old was linked with a move to West Ham last summer. But a move broke down as Rennes had no intention to offload their defensive asset. But West Ham’s interest in Aguerd remains.
The tables have turned this time around, with the Ligue 1 outfit being more receptive towards an offer for Aguerd. His sale could be vital in injecting a financial aid that could go a long way in helping the club balance the books following yet another difficult economic year.
From a sporting perspective, Aguerd will be expected to directly replace Angelo Ogbonna, whose contract expires at the end of the season. There are no guarantees over the future of Issa Diop either, with the young defender remaining on the crosshair of Manchester United, among other top clubs.
The addition of Aguerd, therefore, could be useful in offering Moyes some sizable depth at the back, as he looks to strengthen the West Ham United squad ahead of the new season.
