Has Potter Pulled Off Surprise Defensive U-Turn?

It would appear that West Ham boss Graham Potter has been true to his word in his efforts to persuade one of his wantaway stars to remain at the club.

Early indications appear to suggest that rather than leaving East London in the Summer transfer window, Nayef Aguerd could be set for an extended stay.

The Moroccan central defender had informed club officials of his desire to leave following his return from a loan spell at Real Sociedad. With Potter keen to work with Aguerd—and determined to have a left-footed centre-back to suit his preferred system—the news was certainly unwelcome.

Unfortunately for Aguerd, rumoured interest from La Liga’s top clubs never materialised. West Ham’s stance never wavered. A club source told Claret & Hugh at the time: “If nobody matches our valuation, he’ll be reintegrated into the squad. The manager likes him.”

And so it has proven. Aside from tentative loan enquiries from Marseille and Roma, no serious bids have emerged, and the Hammers have now decided to keep him it seems.

Early signs from pre-season suggest Aguerd has inherited the No.5 shirt from the departed Vladimír Coufal—perhaps a sign he’s staying put?

The 29-year-old is well liked at West Ham, especially around the training ground, and there is no suggestion he has been disruptive. No doubt Graham Potter is relieved he won’t need to recruit yet another player, particularly when he already has one tailor-made for his tactical setup.