Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen Want 29 Year Old West Ham United Defender: What Should The Hammers Do? | OneFootball

Nayef Aguerd arrived in England with high expectations, but his time at West Ham United never took off as hoped. The Moroccan centre-back, signed from Rennes in 2022, showed moments of brilliance at times, but never managed to establish himself as a regular under David Moyes and also not needed by Graham Potter. After a notable loan spell at Real Sociedad during the 2024/25 season, the defender is looking for a change of scenery this summer.

Several clubs across the continent have turned their attention to him. The transfer market is ongoing, and Aguerd is at the centre of the attention. The interest in him is no coincidence: he is left-footed, solid in the air and has good ball control.

Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen Want West Ham United Defender, Nayef Aguerd

According to French media outlet Foot Mercato, Aguerd is on the agenda of four European teams. Real Sociedad wants to keep him after a convincing season. However, it will not be easy. Atlético Madrid are also interested in the 29-year-old centre-back, as are Bayer Leverkusen, who are in need after the departure of Jonathan Tah. And from France, Marseille have already made a move with a formal contract offer. West Ham, who still owns his rights, will have to make a clear decision about his future in the coming weeks, with several options on the table and much to consider.

BACKA TOPOLA, SERBIA – NOVEMBER 30: Nayef Aguerd of West Ham United in action during the UEFA Europa League match between FK TSC Backa Topola and West Ham United FC on November 30, 2023 in Backa Topola, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

What Should The Hammers Do?

The Hammers have an opportunity here that they should not waste. If the player does not fit into their plans, they should capitalise on his market value. It is not advisable to retain a player who wants to leave. Real Sociedad gave him a starring role, Marseille want him to strengthen their defence, and Leverkusen see him as a natural replacement for Tah.

If West Ham plays their cards right, they could force a bid exceeding €20 million. But the club must not rest on their laurels: in these markets, passivity is punished. Another less explored angle points to a sale with a buy-back clause or future percentage. This would not close the door on a possible return if Aguerd’s performance skyrockets. But if the player has already made up his mind, then it is time to act. Keeping him against his will would do more harm than good.