Rennes coach Bruno Genesio admits that Nayef Aguerd is in ‘advanced’ talks to leave the Ligue 1 club with West Ham United closing in, speaking to RMC Sport.
While the two clubs are yet to reach an agreement over the bonuses included in a deal that should end up being West Ham’s most expensive transfer since Sebastien Haller, all the signs are pointing to Aguerd being a Premier League centre-back in 2021/22.
According to The Guardian, The Hammers are ‘close’ to completing the signing of the 26-year-old Morocco international. A claim backed up by the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano.
And while former Lyon boss Genesio was reluctant to confirm that the London Stadium will be Aguerd’s destination, he did admit that Rennes will have to cope without one of France’s most impressive central defenders next term.
West Ham United set to sign Nayef Aguerd
“It is true that there are advanced discussions concerning Nayef, that he expressed the desire to live another adventure,” says Genesio. “In these moments, it is always difficult to retain a player.
“There is a good chance that Nayef will no longer be at Rennes next year.”
Genesio also confirms that he plans to bring in a new centre-half before the summer is out, with soon-to-be-free agent Jason Denayer mentioned as a potential successor for Aguerd at Roazhon Park.
The 6ft 3ins former Dijon man is a defender renowned for his ability in both boxes. In addition to his often superb defensive displays, Aguerd provided four goals and three assists from centre-back as Rennes qualified for Europe last term.
He would also provide David Moyes with a natural left-footed option at the heart of West Ham’s backline. Kurt Zouma played as a left-sided centre-half for most of last season. But the former Chelsea man remains more comfortable on his right foot.
“He’s a very good player,” former Dijon ace Florent Balmont tells Telefoot of Aguerd. “With still a lot of room for improvement.
“He is technically very comfortable. And even if he does not have the most impressive size, he is very strong physically and likes to go into duels.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
