SBOTOP: Sunderland Enter Transfer Tug-of-War with Marseille and Atletico Madrid for West Ham Defender Nayef Aguerd

In a dramatic twist to the 2025 summer transfer window, newly promoted Premier League side Sunderland have emerged as surprise contenders in the race to sign West Ham United’s Moroccan centre-back Nayef Aguerd. The 29-year-old, who joined the Hammers from Rennes in 2022, is now at the centre of a fierce three-way battle involving European giants Olympique Marseille and Atletico Madrid. Sunderland’s audacious attempt to lure Aguerd to the Stadium of Light marks a bold statement of intent as the club aims to reestablish itself in the English top flight.

This article examines Sunderland’s sudden emergence in the transfer race, the motivations of all three clubs involved, Aguerd’s career trajectory and current standing, and the broader implications of the transfer saga on the player’s future and West Ham’s rebuilding plans.

Sunderland’s Ambition A Premier League Return with Purpose

Sunderland’s return to the Premier League after a seven-year absence has ignited a wave of optimism and ambition on Wearside. Under the stewardship of manager Mike Dodds, who earned a permanent appointment after guiding the team through a successful Championship campaign, the Black Cats are eager to avoid being relegation fodder.

Unlike past newly promoted teams who’ve taken a conservative approach to transfers, Sunderland’s ownership, led by Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, appears determined to reshape the club’s profile. The pursuit of Nayef Aguerd—an experienced international with Premier League and European pedigree—is proof of a shift in Sunderland’s recruitment model.

Sources close to the club reveal that Dodds sees Aguerd as a linchpin in building a resilient backline capable of handling the intensity of England’s top division. While Sunderland have already secured the signings of young prospects and squad depth, a seasoned defender like Aguerd would provide leadership and calm to a side with relatively limited top-flight experience.

Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has reportedly held informal talks with Aguerd’s representatives and is preparing a formal offer estimated at around £20 million. While that figure may be slightly below West Ham’s valuation, the Black Cats hope to sweeten the deal with performance-based add-ons and guaranteed starting minutes.

West Ham’s Position Rebuilding Under New Management

West Ham’s 2024–25 campaign ended with mixed reviews. Despite a strong start under David Moyes, the team faded in the latter half of the season and narrowly missed out on European qualification. Moyes departed in May, with Julen Lopetegui taking the reins and initiating a transitional phase at the London Stadium.

Aguerd, once considered a cornerstone of West Ham’s defense, saw his role diminish under interim manager Kevin Nolan. His performances remained steady, but the emergence of younger options like Luiz Felipe and the re-emergence of Kurt Zouma and Thilo Kehrer have cast doubts on his long-term future.

Lopetegui reportedly sees Aguerd as a valuable squad member but not indispensable. With the Spaniard aiming to rejuvenate the squad with younger, more mobile defenders suited to his possession-based philosophy, the Moroccan international could be sacrificed to free up both funds and space.

West Ham value Aguerd at around £25 million and would prefer to sell to a foreign club. However, Sunderland’s offer of immediate cash and their willingness to match Aguerd’s £80,000-per-week wages could turn heads. The Hammers are yet to receive formal bids but are bracing for a flurry of activity as preseason approaches.

Marseille’s Homecoming Pitch

Olympique Marseille, long admirers of Nayef Aguerd, are reportedly keen to bring the defender back to Ligue 1. Aguerd’s success at Rennes between 2020 and 2022, where he established himself as one of France’s top defenders, has not been forgotten. Marseille believe the Moroccan’s familiarity with the league and culture makes him a perfect fit for their defensive rebuild.

Under new manager Sergio Conceiçao, OM are looking to reinforce a backline that underperformed in both domestic and European competitions. The club’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League has impacted their spending power, but they remain confident that Aguerd can be lured by the promise of regular starts and a return to a familiar environment.

Marseille’s current centre-back options—Chancel Mbemba, Samuel Gigot, and Bamo Meïté—lack the consistency and composure that Aguerd could provide. The club is reportedly preparing a loan offer with an obligation to buy for around €22 million, a deal structure that might appeal to West Ham if direct cash bids fall short.

Aguerd himself is said to be open to a return to France but is also mindful of the need to maintain visibility at the highest level, especially with Morocco preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Atletico Madrid’s Continental Ambition

Enter Atletico Madrid—a club always on the lookout for seasoned defenders who can blend physicality with tactical discipline. Diego Simeone’s side, fresh off a third-place La Liga finish, are reportedly interested in Aguerd as part of a defensive reshuffle.

With veteran stalwart Stefan Savić nearing the end of his contract and Mario Hermoso leaving on a free transfer, Los Rojiblancos need immediate reinforcement. Aguerd’s aerial prowess, reading of the game, and ability to play out from the back align with Atletico’s defensive ethos.

However, Atletico’s pursuit is complicated by financial constraints. The club is prioritizing a marquee signing in midfield and may only proceed with Aguerd if a favorable payment plan can be agreed. A part-exchange deal involving fringe players has also been floated, though West Ham reportedly prefer a straight cash deal.

Simeone’s pull remains significant, and the allure of La Liga football and Champions League exposure may tempt Aguerd. Still, the lack of guarantees regarding a starting spot could make the Moroccan think twice.

The Player’s Perspective Playing Time and Prestige

Nayef Aguerd finds himself at a career crossroads. At 29, he is in his prime and keen to solidify his place in Morocco’s national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Regular club minutes are essential, especially in a year leading up to major international competition.

Sources close to the player say Aguerd is not averse to staying in the Premier League but wants clarity about his role under Lopetegui. If first-team assurances aren’t forthcoming, he may be inclined to seek a fresh start—whether that be in England, France, or Spain.

He is also mindful of lifestyle factors. Aguerd and his family have reportedly settled well in London, but the prospect of living in Madrid or returning to the south of France holds its own appeal. Financially, all three suitors can match or improve his current salary, so the footballing project and personal comfort will weigh heavily in his decision.

The Bigger Picture Sunderland’s Growing Reputation

Should Sunderland manage to beat Marseille and Atletico Madrid to Aguerd’s signature, it would represent a seismic shift in their market perception. Once seen as a club with modest pulling power, the Black Cats are gradually building a reputation as an attractive destination for players seeking both challenge and opportunity.

The club’s investment in sports science, youth development, and data-driven recruitment has caught the eye of agents and players alike. Aguerd’s arrival would not only bolster the squad but also signal to future targets that Sunderland means business.

The deal could also ignite further movement in the transfer market. A high-profile signing might encourage other players to follow, with Sunderland also linked to forwards from the Bundesliga and midfielders in Ligue 1. The club’s owners are reportedly open to spending up to £75 million this summer to ensure survival and establish a foundation for future growth.