West Ham United

West Ham United

Premier League • England

West Ham all in for Nayef Aguerd deal after dodging Premier League transfer battle

Nayef Aguerd, Morocco, January 2022.

West Ham are reportedly nearing the signing of Rennes defender Nayef Aguerd, after dropping their interest in in-demand star James Tarkowski.

Aguerd has been a target of the Hammers for some time. They attempted to sign him last summer, but the Moroccan chose not to make the move.

West Ham instead made the signings of Craig Dawson and Kurt Zouma – both of whom have played big parts in the side this season.

Despite that, centre-back has been a problem position for much of the campaign. Injuries to Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna uncovered a lack of depth in the position.

Furthermore, both Ogbonna – who is yet to renew his contract – and Dawson are over 30, and may not have much time left playing at the top level.

As such, David Moyes is still keen on improving in that area of the pitch. One man who has been linked with a move to the London Stadium previously is Tarkowski.

The Burnley man is out of contract at Turf Moor this summer, and will able to move on for free. However, The Daily Star reports that West Ham have pulled out of the running for the transfer.

Tarkowski is a reported target of Leicester City, Newcastle United, Everton and Aston Villa. As such, it may be a smart choice for West Ham to back out, and look at other options, rather than become locked into a battle.


They are, however, still keen on the snare of Aguerd.

In fact, the report states that the Hammers are hoping to complete the deal in the next few days.

Aguerd seems a good signing

Moussa Dembele, Nayef Aguerd

Should West Ham pull off the signing of Aguerd, it would be a good transfer. At just 26 years of age, the centre-back should be coming into his prime in the next few seasons.

He has performed consistently for Rennes over the past couple of seasons, helping them to sixth and fourth-placed finishes in his two campaigns with the club.

What’s more, he has scored seven goals and provided four assists over the last two seasons.

Being able to contribute at both ends of the field is a good asset to have. He would also add to the depth at the back, which has been a clear issue for Moyes’ side this season.

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