Reports indicate that Juventus is in advanced negotiations to acquire Moroccan international defender Nayef Aguerd, in a deal that could see Italian player Daniele Rugani move to West Ham United.
This development follows a successful season for Aguerd (27) on loan at Real Sociedad, where he regained his excellent form and became one of the key pillars of the Basque team’s defense, following a mixed performance during his time at West Ham after his transfer from Rennes in the summer of 2022 for €35 million.
According to Sky Sports, Juventus, under their new coach, aims to bolster their defense with a transfer that guarantees international experience and tactical flexibility, qualities that Aguerd possesses. He also impressed with the Moroccan national team during the 2022 World Cup.
On the other hand, West Ham sees Rugani (29) as an ideal option to strengthen their defense, especially after he fell out of favor at Juventus in recent seasons despite his extensive experience in both Italian and European competitions.
Sources have reported that negotiations between the clubs are still in the early stages; however, there is a mutual desire to finalize the deal before preparations for the new season begin, which would serve both parties’ goals of restructuring their defenses.
It’s worth noting that Aguerd has played 58 matches with West Ham, scoring 4 goals and providing 1 assist, before embarking on a successful stint with Sociedad, while Rugani boasts a wealth of Italian experience that could rejuvenate the Hammers’ defense.
