West Ham close to Nayef Aguerd transfer as Rennes defender sends emotional farewell message

West Ham transfer target Nayef Aguerd has posted an emotional farewell to Rennes ahead of a proposed move to the London Stadium.

The 26-year-old centre-back is widely expected to complete a £30million move to the Premier League this week to join David Moyes ’ side, with Aguerd said to be completing his medical with the club on Monday ahead of his transfer.

Moyes targeted a left-footed centre-back as a priority signing this summer and has moved quickly to ensure the club secured Aguerd’s signature following several impressive seasons in Ligue 1 with Dijon and then Rennes. The defender also has plenty of international experience with 25 caps for Morocco, being an ever-present for them during their run to the last eight of the Africa Cup of Nations in January.

In total, Aguerd made 80 appearances for Rennes and scored seven goals, helping the club to finish sixth in the league during his first season and fourth during the 2021/22 campaign.

"It is with great emotion I announce to you I have played my last match in Rennes colours," Aguerd posted on Twitter. "It’s a difficult decision as I have spent some exceptional times here since my arrival in August 2020. Between the discovery of the Champions League together, the qualification for the Conference League last season, the Europa League this season, the boiling atmospheres of Roazhon Park against PSG, Lyon, Leicester or OM, I leave the branded club.

"I would like to thank the whole club from the bottom of my heart. My teammates who I have fought 80 fights with in the last two seasons and who will remain my second family. The supporters, for their unwavering support in the good and bad times.

"The shareholder, Mr Pinault, who allows the club to grow day by day and to be