West Ham United have confirmed the departure of Sunderland-linked defender Nayef Aguerd to Marseille.
The 29-year-old was put onto the transfer shortlist at the beginning of the summer by the Hammers, although he has played a part at the start of this season.
Aguerd made two Premier League XIs for Graham Potter's men in 2025-26, although the experience was not enjoyable for the centre-back.
The Moroccan played full 90 minutes in both the 3-0 defeat at Sunderland and the 5-1 home thrashing at the hands of Chelsea last month.
After making the switch from Rennes during the summer of 2022, Aguerd featured on 61 occasions for West Ham, scoring four goals.
West Ham United centre-back Nayef Aguerd on February 20, 2025
West Ham confirm Aguerd's return to France
Over 12 hours past the conclusion of the summer transfer window, West Ham have confirmed the departure of a Conference League winner.
Aguerd has secured a deadline day switch to back to France, where he will compete in the colours of Marseille for the 2025-26 season.
The move to the South of France is a permanent one for the defender, meaning that his three-year association with West Ham is over.
According to the Sunderland Echo, newly-promoted Sunderland were keen on bringing the 29-year-old to the Stadium of Light.
However, the race for the centre-back has been won by Marseille, who are preparing for their return to the Champions League later in September.
Ajax's Brian Brobbey pictured on January 11, 2025
Turning attentions elsewhere
Despite failing to secure the services of Marseille man Aguerd, Sunderland still recruited a top-flight defender on deadline day.
The Black Cats welcomed centre-back Lusharel Geertruida to the club, with the 25-year-old Dutchman moving from RB Leipzig on loan.
Regis Le Bris's troops also raided the ranks of Ajax on the final day of the window, permanently signing Bertrand Traore and Brian Brobbey.
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