Nayef Aguerd has made it clear to West Ham United that he does not want to return to east London, TBR Football can exclusively reveal.
Aguerd arrived at West Ham in 2022 in a £30m deal from Rennes and after overcoming an early injury, the Moroccan did impress at times under David Moyes.
The defender was a crucial part of the Hammers’ Conference League triumph in 2023 and played every minute of their knockout-stage run, besides a second leg procession against AEK Larnaca at home.
However, when Julen Lopetegui replaced David Moyes he made it clear that he wanted to move on both Aguerd and Kurt Zouma — and he eventually got his wish.
The 29-year-old has spent the season on loan at Real Sociedad in La Liga where he’s made 36 appearances, and the defender is soon due back at the London Stadium.
Nayef Aguerd has no interest in playing for West Ham next season
That being said, TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that Aguerd does not want to come back to West Ham this summer.
Ideally, Graham Potter would like to bring the Morocco international back into the fold at West Ham — a left-footed defender who has a lot of the credentials needed to be a top player.
Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
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However, there looks to be little chance of Aguerd accepting a place in the Hammers’ squad next season.
As a result, West Ham are ready to accept a permanent offer for the former Rennes star this summer.
Aguerd is talking to a number of clubs across Europe and his departure might now help fund something of a rebuild under Potter.
On his part, Aguerd did enjoy his time with Real Sociedad, and a permanent move to the Spanish side can’t be ruled out at this stage.
Graham Potter will need to decide several futures at West Ham
In terms of Aguerd’s contract with the Hammers, his current deal runs until 2027, meaning West Ham should be able to stand firm on their valuation.
Of course, it’s not just Aguerd who’s set to return from his loan this summer — Potter will also need to assess a few other returnees.
James Ward-Prowse returned early from his Nottingham Forest loan in January, a player who the former Chelsea manager will presumably be looking forward to working with next season.
Otherwise, Maxwel Cornet is also due back from Genoa, another player with a contract that stretches until 2027.
West Ham were in talks to sign Kevin De Bruyne recently, a move that would have shaken the Premier League.
But the Manchester City legend has ultimately opted for a move to Napoli.