French newspaper L’Equipe claim – as per GFFN – that Rennes are looking to replace West Ham-bound Nayef Aguerd with Romain Saiss – who has just been released by Wolves. Aguerd is close to a £34million move to the Hammers.
Reports earlier this week claim that only a dispute regarding bonuses are holding up a move to West Ham for Aguerd. The Morocco international is expected to join the Hammers in a deal that could reach a huge £34million.
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Now, Rennes have begun the search for a replacement. Aguerd is a powerful centre-back, excellent on the ball but also a threat in both boxes. Rennes are considering two options, including Strasbourg’s Ghana star Alexander Djiku.
The other is 32-year-old Saiss. Another Morocco international, Saiss was released by Wolves this summer despite playing 32 times for Bruno Lage’s side last season. Wolves could not come to an agreement over a new deal.
Rennes looking to replace West Ham-bound Aguerd with Saiss
Wolves should really have kept Saiss, even if it was only for another season. The experienced defender, who can also play in midfield, has been a real servant to the Molineux club over the last six years – playing 206 times.
He is a solid replacement for Aguerd and saves Rennes a whole heap of cash given the fee for Aguerd. There could be plenty of interest in Saiss, with reports saying seven clubs wanted him earlier this year.
For West Ham, it is a sign that Rennes are planning for life without Aguerd – throwing weight behind the narrative that Aguerd is joining the Hammers. When will a deal be announced? West Ham fans will not have to wait too long.
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