Reports from France suggest Sunderland have entered the race to sign a Premier League defender eager to leave his current club this summer.
The Black Cats have already made early moves in the transfer window following their Championship play-off final, bringing in Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki under new manager Régis Le Bris. Further additions, including Chemsdine Talbi and Reinildo Mandava, are also expected to be announced soon.
Now, Sunderland are reportedly eyeing another reinforcement—this time a World Cup semi-finalist with top-flight experience.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Sunderland are pursuing West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd, who is also attracting interest from Marseille, Roma, AC Milan, and Real Sociedad—the latter being where he spent last season on loan.
It’s unclear whether West Ham would be open to selling the Moroccan to another Premier League club, but indications are that his time at the London Stadium is nearing an end.
Hammers News confirmed reports that the 29-year-old asked not to return for pre-season. Although he was seen at Rush Green on Monday, he didn’t participate in full training.
Aguerd Could Be a Valuable Asset for Sunderland
With Aguerd seemingly pushing for a move, Sunderland may have a chance to beat out major European clubs and bring him back to England’s top flight.
The Morocco international would add much-needed Premier League experience to Sunderland’s backline, and his ability to play both centrally and at left-back would offer tactical flexibility for Le Bris.
Despite a challenging spell at West Ham, Aguerd impressed at Real Sociedad, where he was praised as an “exceptional centre-back” capable of adapting to various systems and comfortable with the ball at his feet (via Breaking The Lines).
A move this summer could offer him the fresh start he seems to be seeking, and with his age and desire to leave, he may be available at a reasonable price.
This is certainly a transfer saga for Sunderland fans to keep an eye on in the coming weeks.