Nayef Aguerd is closing in on a return to Real Sociedad after agreeing terms on a temporary move from Olympique de Marseille. The Moroccan defender is expected to complete a loan switch to the Basque club that includes a mandatory purchase clause, according to Foot Mercato.
The arrangement would see the 30-year-old commit to a five-year contract with the La Liga side once the obligatory transfer fee is triggered at the conclusion of the loan period. This structure allows Marseille to record an immediate sale whilst Sociedad spread the financial commitment across the upcoming campaign before making the deal permanent next summer.
The transfer addresses pressing concerns for the French outfit. Les Phocéens face stringent demands from French football’s financial watchdog, the DNCG, to balance their books before the window closes. Offloading Aguerd contributes toward satisfying these regulatory requirements as the club works to streamline its squad and generate necessary revenue.
This represents Aguerd’s second spell at the Reale Arena. The centre-back previously spent time on loan with the Spanish club during his tenure at West Ham United, having joined the Hammers from French side Dijon. That prior experience suggests he will adapt quickly to manager Imanol Alguacil’s system.
Should the deal proceed as anticipated, Aguerd will depart Marseille permanently despite only joining the Ligue 1 giants last year. The Moroccan international becomes the latest player targeted for departure as the southern French club accelerates its player trading strategy to meet compliance deadlines and avoid sanctions.
Real Sociedad will secure defensive reinforcement ahead of the new season, whilst Marseille moves closer to resolving its financial obligations. The transfer could be finalised before the window shuts, pending medical examinations and final documentation.