West Ham reach ‘advanced’ stage of Aguerd negotiations as target looks for London property

Nayef Aguerd is looking for a house in London as reports indicate a transfer to West Ham United is getting closer.

Aguerd has emerged as a major target for West Ham for the summer transfer window. They want to strengthen in defence after struggling for depth in the role when Kurt Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna were injured last season.

Craig Dawson and Issa Diop have also shared responsibilities within their backline. But there is a feeling they need a new starter, most likely alongside Zouma, in the position.

Reports recently indicated that there was a growing confidence over the completion of a deal for Aguerd.

Now, Football Insider have revealed that West Ham are in “advanced talks” with his current club, Rennes. What’s more, Aguerd is searching for a property in London ahead of a potential move.

The online outlet claims that the transfer fee for Aguerd will be in the region of £25m. Therefore, he could be close to their top-five ranking of record signings.

At the age of 26, the Morocco international is about to enter the prime of his career. He could spend it in the Premier League, despite never having played for an English club before.

West Ham have faith in him after his performances for Rennes in recent seasons, though. In 2021-22, Aguerd amassed 40 appearances in all competitions for the French club.

Crucially, he is a left-footed centre-back, which is a profile of player West Ham do not have other than Ogbonna. And the 34-year-old will not be their leader at the back for much longer anyway.

Hence, Aguerd can step into his shoes and provide balance to their backline.

Despite him signing a contract extension until 2025 last summer, Rennes are ready to cash in on Aguerd this summer after their fourth-place finish in