Aguerd turns down Al Sadd interest as Marseille defender prioritises Europe

Nayef Aguerd has rejected the prospect of joining Al Sadd, with the Olympique de Marseille defender determined to continue his career in Europe despite the Qatari club making an official approach.

According to L’Equipe, Al Sadd has contacted the Marseille hierarchy about signing the 30-year-old Morocco international. However, the player does not currently want to move to the Qatar Stars League and is instead focused on finding an ambitious sporting project in Europe.

That stance has stalled the possibility of a transfer to Qatar, even though Marseille are prepared to consider selling him. The French club are asking for €17m to allow Aguerd to leave, while his current market valuation is put at €15m.

Aguerd’s preference to remain in Europe means interest from other clubs remains alive. Stade Rennais are continuing to monitor developments closely, with the defender having made a strong impression during his previous spell in Brittany between 2020 and 2022.

A return to Stade Rennais is not considered easy to complete at this stage, but the club’s officials remain attentive to the situation. Aguerd’s decision to reject the Qatari option has therefore kept open the possibility of a move elsewhere in Europe, although no agreement with another club is indicated.

The defender, who was born in Kenitra, remains under contract with Olympique de Marseille until the summer of 2030. That long-term commitment gives Marseille a strong position in discussions over his future, while also allowing the club to set its financial demands for a potential departure.

Aguerd is currently valued at €15m, but Marseille’s asking price is €17m. The difference between those figures could become an important factor if another European club decides to pursue him.

In France, Aguerd earns an annual salary of €4,910,000, equivalent to 3,191,500,000 FCFA. His contract length and financial terms will form part of any discussions should renewed interest develop.

For now, the Morocco international’s priority is clear: he wants to establish himself in a competitive project on the European continent rather than move to Qatar. That preference has prevented Al Sadd’s approach from progressing, while clubs including Stade Rennais continue to follow events around the Marseille defender.