Porto and Villarreal reportedly enter the race to sign Nayef Aguerd

West Ham United defender Nayef Aguerd is set to leave the club this summer after a disappointing spell in East London.

According to Foot Mercato, Porto and Villarreal are the front-runners to sign him.

The Moroccan international has been looking for a move away from the Hammers for several weeks, frustrated by his lack of playing time.

While Ligue 1 clubs have shown interest, their reluctance to meet Aguerd’s wage demands has hindered a potential transfer. Atletico Madrid were monitoring the situation but did not make a concrete move.

However, the race for Aguerd has intensified with the transfer deadline looming.

Porto and Villarreal have identified the 28-year-old as a top priority in their defensive rebuilds. The two clubs are eager to secure his signature before the transfer window closes.

The Portuguese club have sold David Carmo to Nottingham Forest and Pepe retired this summer, leaving a gaping hole in their backline.

Villarreal captain Raul Albiol is entering the twilight of his career, and his partner Eric Bailly does not have the most reliable injury history. The Yellow Submarines must refresh their options.

Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad have also expressed an interest in Aguerd. This would be ideal for the Irons as the club looks to recoup as much of the €35 million fee they paid for him in 2022.

There have been no concrete developments from the Saudi club, but their financial power could make them a tempting option for the Moroccan defender.