Nayef Aguerd has handed new West Ham manager Graham Potter an early summer setback by making it clear he has no interest in returning to the club.
The Moroccan centre-back, currently on loan at Real Sociedad, had been penciled in for a key role in Potter’s budget-conscious squad rebuild.
With financial limitations looming due to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), Aguerd was seen as a cost-effective solution to strengthen the defence without requiring additional spending.
However, Aguerd has reportedly informed West Ham of his desire to leave the club permanently, complicating their summer transfer plans.
The 28-year-old, who joined the Hammers from Rennes in 2022 for $40 million, has two years remaining on his contract but is seeking a new challenge where he can compete for major honours.
This development adds further strain to an already thin squad, with multiple departures anticipated and uncertainty surrounding the future of fellow defender Jean-Clair Todibo.
Aguerd has enjoyed a standout campaign in La Liga and is expected to attract significant interest in the coming weeks.
Manchester United have been linked with the Moroccan international, while Real Sociedad are reportedly keen to retain him on a permanent basis.
The Spanish side could have the financial means to strike a deal, especially with midfielder Martín Zubimendi tipped for a big-money move—Arsenal are currently favourites to sign him.
Despite Aguerd’s stance, West Ham are not expected to let him leave easily.
According to FootballFanCast, the club has no intention of sanctioning a sale, with Potter eager to have him as part of his plans for the 2025–26 Premier League season.
