West Ham United defender Nayef Aguerd is set to leave the club this summer after a disappointing spell in East London.
According to Foot Mercato, FC Porto and Villarreal are emerging as frontrunners for his signature.
The Moroccan international has been looking for a move away from the Hammers for several weeks, frustrated by his lack of playing time.
While Ligue 1 clubs have shown interest, their reluctance to meet Aguerd’s wage demands has hindered a potential transfer. Atletico Madrid were monitoring the situation but did not make a concrete move.
However, the race for Aguerd’s services has intensified, with the transfer deadline looming.
Porto and Villarreal have identified the 28-year-old as a top priority in their defensive rebuilds. The two clubs are eager to secure his signature before the transfer window closes.
Porto have sold David Carmo to Nottingham Forest, and Pepe retired this summer, leaving a gaping hole in their backline.
Meanwhile, Villarreal captain Raul Albiol is entering the twilight of his career at 38, and his partner Eric Bailly (30) does not have the most reliable injury history. The Yellow Submarines must refresh their options.
In addition to European interest, Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad have also expressed an interest in Aguerd. This would be ideal for the Irons as the club looks to recoup as much of the €35 million fee they paid for him in the summer of 2022.
There have been no concrete developments from the Saudi side, but their financial power could make them a tempting option for the Moroccan defender.
Who could replace Aguerd?
West Ham’s insistence on selling the former Rennes star is understandable, considering his underwhelming performances, but the Hammers must analyse their options.
Angelo Ogbonna has left, and Kurt Zouma has one leg out of the door, leaving Konstantinos Mavropanos to cover for new signings Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman, which is not ideal.
The Hammers must sign another, possibly cheaper alternative into the fold before the transfer window closes.
Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah has been touted as a possible option, and he could fit the bill if the Blues decide to set a reasonable asking price.