MERCATO – Nayef Aguerd (Stade Rennais) flies to West Ham

“I was really excited when I heard about the interest from West Ham Unitedsaid Nayef Aguerd. When I heard about it I knew I had to go to the Premier League because it’s every player’s dream.” Quadrilingual (French, English, Arabic and Spanish), the defender should have no trouble integrating into the league across the Channel.

Already on Saturday, the 26-year-old had sent a farewell message to Stade Rennais supporters and staff. In total, Nayef Aguerd played 80 games in the Rennes jersey, in all competitions (including the 2020-2021 Champions League), and showed that he had his place among the best central defenders in Ligue 1.

His level of play this season quickly attracted envy in England and the choice of the Moroccan was quickly made after the proposal from the Hammers. “West Ham are a historic club. I’ve seen a few of their games this year, and I’ve seen the fans and the atmosphere was fantastic!” he rejoiced. “I spoke with the manager and he showed me that he was very interested, so it was easy to choose to come to West Ham.”

A version confirmed by the coach of the London team David Moyes: “I am delighted to welcome Nayef to West Ham United. We have been following his progress for some time and I am very happy that we were able to complete his signing. He is a great addition who will strengthen our defensive options. “

“I was very impressed with Nayef’s character and attitude during our discussions, wanted to add the technician. He has a great desire to improve and succeed, and I’m sure he will adapt very well to the environment we have at Rush Green.”

At West Ham, Nayef Aguerd will be in direct competition with Craig Dawson, Issa Diop, Angelo Ogbonna and Kurt Zouma, even as the club will play in the Europa League Conference after finishing 7th in the last English championship.