Nayef Aguerd’s Future at Marseille Uncertain Amid Growing Transfer Interest

Rabat – Morocco’s Nayef Aguerd could become one of Olympique Marseille’s biggest stories of the summer transfer window as interest in the defender continues to grow across Europe and the Gulf. 

Aguerd joined Marseille last summer after lengthy negotiations led by sporting director Medhi Benatia, who reportedly viewed the former Rennes center-back as a key figure capable of bringing stability and leadership to the club’s defense. 

Expectations were high from the moment he arrived on the Canebière, and the Atlas Lion quickly established himself as one of the team’s defensive leaders. 

Despite his strong presence on the pitch and inside the dressing room, Aguerd’s season was heavily affected by recurring physical problems. The 30-year-old spent much of the campaign dealing with injuries and discomfort, limiting both his rhythm and consistency during important stretches of the season. 

He ultimately made 25 appearances across all competitions for Marseille. 

Aguerd had initially hoped to recover in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was included in Morocco’s preliminary squad for the tournament. The defender even traveled with the Atlas Lions ahead of the competition, but was eventually ruled out before the group stage as he continued recovering from a groin injury that required surgery earlier this year. 

Read also: Aguerd Ruled Out of Morocco’s 2026 World Cup Squad, Marwane Saadane Called Up

In a message published after his withdrawal, Aguerd explained that although his recovery was progressing well, he and the technical staff had agreed that he was not yet physically ready to perform at the level required to help the team during the tournament.

Now, attention has shifted back to his club’s future. According to reports from Foot Mercato, Aguerd has a €15 million release clause in his contract with Marseille. The situation reportedly becomes more complicated for the French club because refusing an offer matching that amount could force Marseille to significantly increase the defender’s salary. 

The clause has reportedly attracted interest from several clubs monitoring the Moroccan international’s situation, with teams from both Europe and the Gulf said to be following developments closely.

While Aguerd remains under contract with Marseille until 2030, uncertainty surrounding his physical condition and contractual situation could make him one of the most closely watched Moroccan players of the summer transfer window.