After splashing out close to £60m last week the Hammers need funds to continue a much needed squad rebuild. The news that Nayef Aguerd has been photographed in Marseille suggests that the Moroccan is set to exit the Hammers and join Emerson Palmieri as Roberto De Zerbi looks to add flair to his defensive set up. An estimated fee of £20m has been mooted which will give West Ham cash to find a more suitable replacement.
At this point any of six options to add to the central defence appear possible. Top of the list appears to be 23 year old Charlie Cresswell who has enjoyed an impressive spell at Toulouse. Other reports suggest that Taylor Harwood-Bellis (also 23 y/o) is being considered but Southampton appear to be seeking a big fee. Other possibilities include loan deals for Chelsea outcast Axel Disasi, Braga’s 22 year old starlet Bright Arrey-Mbi or even the experienced Manuel Akanji from Man City. Earlier interest in Brighton’s Igor Julio seem to have cooled as he looks set to move to Crystal Palace.
Whatever happens, it's pretty clear that Aguerd is finally leaving so incoming seems inevitable. With new cash and such an array of choices it seems that the Hammers are in a strong position to add to Graham Potter’s options at centre back!
Best of luck to Aguerd who sadly never quite adjusted to the rigours of the Premiership.
