Atletico Madrid have opened talks with West Ham United over a deal to sign Moroccan central defender Nayef Aguerd this summer, according Foot Mercato.
The Hammers have been looking to sell the Moroccan since the start of the window, this was only boosted by the club’s decision to sign Max Kilman just over two weeks ago. The club is now looking for suitors for the 28-year-old, and Madrid could be his destination.
Atletico Madrid have reportedly stepped up their efforts to sign a left centre back this summer after losing Mario Hermoso on a free transfer. The Colchoneros had a €25m bid rejected for Feyenoord defender David Hancko, Aguerd seems to be the first alternative for the Slovakian defender.
However, there has already been disagreements over the terms of the potential transfer. Atleti reportedly want to sign Aguerd on loan with an option to buy, while the Hammers want either a straight sale or loan with an obligation to purchase at the end of the season. As of now, both clubs are not ready to change their proposals, and the deal remains on standby.
Reports have suggested that West Ham need to sell to buy another centre-back, and Aguerd is top of that transfer list. However, West don’t seem to be in any rush and will wait for the right deal, as a move for Jean-Clair Todibo is stalling. The Hammers had a loan-to-buy offer for the Nice defender accepted, however, the Frenchman prefers a move to Juventus. It still remains unclear whether Juventus will be able to afford the player, so a move to West Ham could still be on the cards. The club can fund a move for Todibo without a sale as it will just be a small loan fee.
The main reason the club want to let Aguerd go is because of his desire to leave the club. But as a player, he would suit Julen Lopetegui’s system very well due to his ability on the ball. The Moroccan has been used in pre-season and has travelled to the US for the pre-season tour. So, Aguerd staying at the club past this summer cannot be completely ruled out if a club cannot meet West Ham’s valuation.
