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Exclusive: Al-Ittihad now make 'shock' move to sign West Ham star Aguerd this week
Al-Ittihad are planning a shock late move for West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd before the close of the transfer window in the Saudi Pro League, sources have told Football Insider.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League after joining West Ham from Rennes last summer in a £30million deal.
Now Al-Ittihad, who had a sensational £150million bid for Liverpool star Mohamed Salah rejected last week, are working on a stunning deal for a Premier League star at the peak of his powers.
The Saudi club are managed by ex-Tottenham boss Nuno Espirito Santo and their star men include Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema and former Chelsea superstar N’Golo Kante.
Al-Ittihad have until Thursday’s (7 September) deadline to complete a deal for the centre-back.
Aguerd was instrumental in Morocco reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup in Qatar and he capped a brilliant debut season for West Ham by helping the Hammers win the Europa Conference League.
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He is amongst the best defenders in the Premier League for winning tackles and aerial ability in both boxes – and scored in the recent win over Chelsea.
The 27-year-old has already made three appearances for West Ham this season, missing the 3-1 win over Brighton last month through suspension.
Aguerd has racked up 33 outings for the Irons since joining last summer, scoring three goals.
The 34-cap Morocco international also made 80 appearances for Rennes, including in the Champions League.
West Ham moved to strengthen at centre-back in the summer window, signing Konstantinos Mavropanos from Stuttgart.
Aguerd is not the only Irons player being targetted by Saudi clubs before their transfer deadline.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (4 September) that Saudi Pro League sides are interested in signing attacking midfield ace Pablo Fornals.
In other news, West Ham could now sign two free agents.