Marseille’s financial plans put Morocco defender Nayef Aguerd on Real Sociedad’s radar

Olympique de Marseille’s efforts to reduce its wage bill could lead to the departure of Morocco international Nayef Aguerd, with Real Sociedad reportedly stepping up its interest in the defender.

Marseille are restructuring their squad ahead of the new season as they seek to lower salary costs and create room for further activity in the transfer market. That process could see the French club part company with several prominent players in the coming weeks.

According to Foot Mercato, Real Sociedad have moved strongly into contention for Aguerd. The Spanish club are understood to be taking advantage of Marseille’s desire to sell some of their highest-paid players as the French side attempts to improve its financial position.

Aguerd is considered one of the leading candidates to leave Marseille this summer because of his market value. His sale could provide the club with a significant financial return and help strengthen its finances as it continues to reshape the squad.

The 29-year-old defender already has experience of playing for Real Sociedad. He spent the 2024-25 season on loan at the La Liga club from West Ham, before returning to Marseille.

Aguerd’s possible departure is part of a wider series of changes expected at Marseille. Reports indicate that Argentina goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli is close to moving to Manchester City, while Brazilian winger Igor Paixao continues to attract interest from several clubs.

The Morocco defender has been linked with a number of potential destinations since the beginning of the transfer window. Qatar club Al Sadd are among those pushing strongly to sign him, while his former club Rennes have also expressed an interest in bringing him back.

Aguerd previously had a release clause worth €15m, but the period in which that clause could be activated ended at the close of July. Any prospective deal would therefore depend on negotiations between the clubs and the player’s current situation at Marseille.

The defender’s past association with Real Sociedad could work in the Spanish club’s favour as they assess whether to make a formal move. However, Marseille’s financial priorities mean that interest from Al Sadd, Rennes and other clubs could also become relevant if they are prepared to meet the French side’s valuation.

For Marseille, the priority remains reducing the cost of the squad while generating funds for possible arrivals. Aguerd is one of the most valuable assets available to the club, making his future an important part of the planned changes before the new campaign begins.