West Ham United defender Nayef Aguerd is set to join Marseille this summer on a permanent deal, according to [Foot Mercato](https://x.com/Santi_J_FM/status/1962262945737380084).
Aguerd becomes the second West Ham player to leave East London this window for Ligue 1 after Emerson Palmieri.
The Hammers also lost out on targets like CJ Egan-Riley and Angel Gomes to the French side.
Aguerd’s future at West Ham has been uncertain since his return from a successful loan at Real Sociedad, where he made 36 appearances and impressed.
Injuries and inconsistency ruined his time at West Ham, but many suitors still believe in his ability, and he has now sealed a move away.
The 29-year-old made 61 appearances for West Ham, scoring four times and providing an assist.
The Moroccan international (55 caps) looked good in his three appearances for the Hammers this term, but has now taken his talents elsewhere, leaving the club light at the back.
West Ham cannot afford to sit on their hands in the wake of Aguerd’s departure.
The defence already looked stretched, and losing a player of his calibre leaves Graham Potter’s side in urgent need of reinforcement at Rush Green.
The Hammers need to move for Toulouse defender [Charlie Cresswell](https://westhamblog.co.uk/posts/west-ham-plot-move-for-charlie-cresswell-before-transfer-deadline/) to replace him.
The 23-year-old has proven himself in Ligue 1, combining aerial dominance, composure on the ball, and an organiser’s instinct.
His pedigree at youth international level, capped by a starring role in England’s Under-21 European Championship triumph, underlines his readiness for the Premier League step up.
With Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman struggling, West Ham must seize this opportunity to bring in a defender who can anchor the backline for years to come.
If the Irons want to remain competitive this season, replacing Aguerd with Cresswell is a smart move.
_Stats from Transfermarkt_