Sunderland submit official bid for Nayef Aguerd after crushing Dan Ballard news
Sunderland are keen to add a new defender to their squad before the transfer window closes.
Despite all of the Black Cats’ spending this summer, Regis Le Bris is yet to bring in a top centre-back.
As a result, Sunderland have been eyeing West Ham’s Nayef Aguerd, who recently made his return to the East London club after his loan spell at Real Sociedad.
Now, the transfer saga has developed further, with the Black Cats having mere days to complete the deal.
Sunderland submit Nayef Aguerd bid amid Dan Ballard injury news
While Sunderland had been keen on Aguerd earlier in the transfer window, their renewed interest has come amid an update on Dan Ballard.
The Black Cats defender had been one of Le Bris’ best players in the opening matches of the campaign.
However, Ballard picked up an injury in Sunderland’s against Burnley, which resulted in the defender coming off after eight minutes, with little being said since.
- Ballard is expected to be out of action for two to three weeks
- Sunderland are in need of a new centre-back
- Aguerd has been heavily linked with the Black Cats
Now, it appears Sunderland are pushing to sign Aguerd, with Santi Aouna confirming via X that the Black Cats have submitted an official bid for the West Ham defender.
Marseille are also interested in the Moroccan international, and their interest has accelerated in recent hours.
Can Nayef Aguerd be a success at Sunderland?
Given how West Ham and Aguerd have started their season, it is understandable why many of the Stadium of Light faithful would be sceptical about the addition of the centre-back.
The Moroccan international has started in each of the Hammers’ last three matches, which has resulted in three defeats and 11 goals conceded.
However, according to Fotmob, as of 29 August, during his loan spell at Real Sociedad last season, Aguerd impressed.
| Nayef Aguerd in La Liga last season | Per 90 minutes |
| Shots | 0.77 |
| Expected goals | 0.12 |
| Chances created | 0.26 |
| Fouls won | 0.97 |
| Tackles won | 1.23 |
| Duels won | 5.87 |
| Aerial duels won | 3.11 |
The defender had great defensive stats and was also a threat in the box when he went forward.
Therefore, if Le Bris can help the 29-year-old rekindle this form, he could be a fine addition.
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