West Ham made headlines with their post-deadline day confirmation of Nayef Aguerd’s departure to Olympique de Marseille. The transfer, which was officially announced on Tuesday morning, came after the summer transfer window closed at 7pm the previous evening. Aguerd, who spent three seasons with West Ham, made significant contributions during his time at the club, including in the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League final victory over Fiorentina.
Aguerd’s departure marks the end of his stint with West Ham, during which he also had a loan spell at Real Sociedad. The Morocco international, who struggled to secure a regular starting position, now leaves the club to make way for new signing, Igor Julio. West Ham acquired Aguerd for £30 million in 2022, and Marseille secured his services for £19.9 million.
Igor Julio, who chose West Ham over Crystal Palace, expressed his excitement about joining the club and highlighted the positive environment and project at West Ham. The experienced defender, who is familiar with the Premier League from his time at Brighton, is eager to contribute to the team’s success and embrace the challenges ahead.
Manager Graham Potter welcomed Julio to the club, praising his skills and experience, and expressing his optimism about Julio’s potential impact on the team. Julio’s arrival adds to the positive momentum at West Ham, following recent signings and a notable victory against Nottingham Forest.
With Julio’s addition and the club’s ambitions for the season, West Ham fans have reason to be hopeful about the team’s prospects and the new dynamics within the squad.
