West Ham United Defender Could Leave In The Summer: Can The Hammers Afford To Lose Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Pete O’Rourke mentioned that West Ham United defender Nayef Aguerd could leave in the summer. It has been stated that the Morocco international could part ways with the Hammers despite having a contract that runs out in the summer of 2027.

Aguerd’s Decent Form At The London Stadium This Season

Aguerd is having a solid season at the East London club as he has managed to put in a series of impressive displays at the heart of David Moyes’ defence. The Moroccan sensation has made 24 appearances for the Hammers this season, scoring a couple of goals and picking up one assist across various competitions.

The 27-year-old has been a good contributor when defending inside his half based on his average of 1.2 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 4.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He has even been accurate when distributing the ball from the back as evidenced by his pass success rate of 79.9% in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).

Aguerd is still under a long-term contract at the London Stadium, so the Hammers would be under no pressure to cash in on him in the summer transfer window.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 24: Nayef Aguerd of West Ham United inspects the pitch prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and West Ham United at Anfield on September 24, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Can West Ham United Afford To Lose Aguerd?

Aguerd is a tough-tackling defender who can scan the danger well to secure the ball back for his team on the defensive third of the pitch. He doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive. The Morocco international can even use his strong 1.90m frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air.

At the moment, Aguerd is serving as an important member of David Moyes’ match-day squad. However, he is not guaranteed a regular starting spot at the East London club. At 27, the Moroccan talent has to ensure regular first-team starts if he wants to continue improving as a footballer.

Thus, it is only fair to the player if West Ham allow him to leave in the summer. The Hammers can afford to lose him if they receive a favourable offer later this year. The East Londoners would be wise to use the money generated from his potential sale to bring in a suitable replacement at the end of this season.