Marseille have identified Nayef Aguerd as their number one target to bolster their central defence as the French club look to reinforce their backline ahead of the new season.
In their search for a commanding presence at the heart of the defence, Olympique de Marseille have placed their full focus on securing the services of the Moroccan international.
Following a mixed spell in the Premier League with West Ham United, Aguerd has reignited his form at Real Sociedad, re-establishing himself as a reliable and composed defender, now back on the radar of top European clubs.
While both AS Roma and Juventus have been closely monitoring the situation, it is Marseille who appear the most committed to bringing the 28-year-old to the Stade Vélodrome.
According to L’Équipe, newly appointed manager Roberto De Zerbi and sporting director Mehdi Benatia are united in their ambition to make Aguerd a central pillar of their defensive structure.
Known for his ability to play out from the back with precision and his comfort on the ball, especially with his left foot, Aguerd offers a skillset that fits seamlessly with De Zerbi’s footballing philosophy.
His leadership qualities and calmness under pressure have made him an attractive proposition for a Marseille side determined to reassert itself both domestically and in Europe.
Benatia, himself a former Moroccan international defender, is believed to be playing a key role in the recruitment push, using his personal connection with Aguerd and his knowledge of the player’s strengths to convince him of the club’s project.
With De Zerbi’s tactical demands and Marseille’s ambitions aligning, the club view Aguerd as the ideal candidate to add experience and balance to their defensive line.
Aguerd’s revival at Real Sociedad came after a challenging stint in England, where despite flashes of quality, injuries and inconsistency hampered his progress at West Ham.
A move to La Liga has proven restorative, with the defender regaining the form that once made him one of Ligue 1’s most reliable centre-backs during his time with Rennes.
The Moroccan’s potential return to French football is seen by many at Marseille as a natural fit. Not only does he bring top-flight experience from multiple European leagues, but his familiarity with the tempo and demands of Ligue 1 adds a layer of assurance to what would be a crucial summer signing.
Negotiations are ongoing, and while the deal is not yet finalised, OM’s intent is clear. They are prepared to move decisively to beat off competition from their European rivals and land a player they believe can elevate the team’s defensive solidity.
As the transfer window continues to unfold, Marseille’s pursuit of Nayef Aguerd will be one of the key stories to watch, with the club aiming to make a statement of intent by securing a defender of proven pedigree and international stature.
