West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd and manager Graham Potterin a circular inset.
Credit: Imago
Pranav Shahaney
Wed 27 August 2025 19:40, UK
Sunderland are reportedly eyeing a deadline-busting transfer for West Ham centre-back Nayef Aguerd.
Earlier this summer, Aguerd was on the radar of Roma, who even submitted a bid to sign the Morocco international, but that was turned down by the Hammers.
Aguerd started in the 3-0 loss to Sunderland, as well as West Ham’s other Premier League defeat against Chelsea and has been Graham Potter’s go-to option in defence.
Potter even handed him a start as the Hammers crashed out of the Carabao Cup against Wolves on Tuesday night.
West Ham manager Graham Potter
Credit: Imago
Sunderland put Nayef Aguerd high up on their priority list
Aguerd has been linked to the Black Cats this summer and despite there being only days left for the window to close, he remains on their radar.
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According to Santi Aouna on 27 August, Sunderland have the centre-back high up on their priority list.
The Foot Mercato journalist claims that his future is one to watch as he could seal his London Stadium exit.
Apart from Sunderland, who have decided to make a “big splash” this summer, other European clubs have also shown an interest in signing the defender.
West Ham have no time to replace Nayef Aguerd
Aguerd’s tenure at West Ham since his 2022 move from Rennes has been turbulent, marked by inconsistent performances and defensive errors, contributing to the team’s struggles.
Despite his early promise, the 29-year-old Moroccan has failed to justify his £30million price tag, often losing his place to less experienced defenders.
Club Appearances Goals Assists
FUS Rabat 88 6 –
Stade Rennais 80 7 4
West Ham 61 4 1
Real Sociedad 36 – –
Dijon 29 4 –
Aguerd’s career stats.
However, selling him now, with the transfer window closing on 1 September, leaves the East London side perilously short of time to secure a quality replacement.
With injuries already straining their side, retaining Aguerd, despite his flaws, is crucial to avoid further squad depletion, allowing Potter to stabilise the defence before January.
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