According to reports from Foot Mercato, Olympique Marseille has successfully reached an agreement with West Ham United for the transfer of experienced centre-back Nayef Aguerd, aged 29.
Aguerd is now poised for a return to Ligue 1, where he previously showcased his skills for Dijon and Stade Rennais before making his move to West Ham in 2022. Following a loan spell at Real Sociedad last season, and despite being reintegrated into the squad at his parent club for the current campaign, a permanent transfer for the defender had been widely anticipated.
Marseille has been actively seeking to reinforce its defensive line, a priority that remains despite recent acquisitions. The club brought in CJ Egan-Riley on a free transfer from Burnley FC and secured Facundo Medina on loan from RC Lens. However, Medina is currently recovering from an injury and is expected to rejoin the team after the upcoming international break, highlighting the continued need for defensive depth.
The proposed deal involves Marseille committing €23 million to sign Aguerd on a comprehensive five-year contract. Head coach Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly keen on the Moroccan international, hoping his arrival will inject much-needed stability and calm into a defensive unit that has appeared notably vulnerable in their opening three matches of the season.
