In a recent report, Daily Mail revealed that Stade Rennais defender Nayef Aguerd is set to undergo his medical with West Ham United soon but Newcastle United have emerged as a surprise contender for the Ligue 1 defender, making a last-minute bid. It is understood that the Hammers are ready to pay an initial fee of £20m, which could rise to £30m.
Aguerd’s Impressive Campaign At Roazhon Park
The 26-year-old defender enjoyed a solid campaign in French football after producing some dominant displays for Rennes on the defensive end. Aguerd managed to score four goals and produce three assists over 40 appearances for the French club last season across all fronts.
The Moroccan sensation has impressed in the defensive third of the pitch by averaging 0.9 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 4.0 clearances per game in Ligue 1. He has been impressive with his ball distribution based on his pass completion rate of 89% in the French top-flight (stats via whoscored).
What Should Be The Play Of West Ham United Boss David Moyes?
The Morocco international can stick his foot into making some hard-bound tackles which can trouble the opposition attackers in getting past him. He can time his tackles well to secure the ball back from the opposition and is proficient in making some clever interceptions. The Moroccan defender doesn’t mind clearing the danger when required and his tall 1.88 m frame makes him a threat for the opposition during corner situations in the final third.
Aguerd is primarily a central defender but remains versatile enough to play as a left-back when required to do so. He fits the bill perfectly for West Ham boss David Moyes‘ defensive department as the left-back area has remained problematic for the Hammers.
Newcastle United’s last-minute bid to lure him towards St. James Park could ruin Moyes’ plans to solve the problem areas in the squad. If the Magpies make an exciting offer with the staggering £150m transfer budget at their disposal, they could very well steer him towards their side, which would come as a huge blow to West Ham.
David Moyes would be wise in convincing Aguerd to close the deal after the medicals and West Ham should focus on finalising the transfer before Eddie Howe snaps him up.
