Nayef Aguerd could leave West Ham United to seal Al-Ittihad transfer, approval given
West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd has given his approval to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad ahead of a potential permanent transfer, according to Salem Al Kulaib.
The Saudi Arabian News 24 journalist shared via his Twitter account that the club have received the approval of the Moroccan defender, following previous reports of interest in his signature from former club Rennes [Foot Mercato, 21 August].
A move to Al-Ittihad would give Aguerd the opportunity to play alongside the likes of Karim Benzema and Ngolo Kante, as well as former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho, as well as a likely boost to his wage packet.
The Hammers will be reluctant to sell
There is no reason for West Ham to entertain any team trying to sign Aguerd this summer. He is the rock in their defence, often alongside Kurt Zouma, and turns in consistently brilliant performances which have made him a fan-favourite at the London Stadium.
The Moroccan has been a stalwart in David Moyes’ defence and started the first two games of the season before being sent off for two yellow cards against Chelsea, meaning he missed the brilliant 3-1 win against Brighton at the Amex.
It seems unlikely that Aguerd would force a move away from the Hammers by means of a transfer request, despite giving the Saudi Arabian club his approval for a potential deal. His role in the side that won last season’s Europa Conference League should be enough to convince him he is in the right place.
It is, however, difficult to say no to the type of wages being offered in Saudi Arabia, as well as the opportunity to play alongside some legendary talents – as has been proven by the players who have made the switch away from Europe so far this summer.
In other West Ham news, the race for a new striker has begun as Tim Steidten touches down in London.