Real Madrid linked with a surprise move for West Ham United star in January: Reports
According to a report by Fichajes.net (via Thehardtackle), Real Madrid's hierarchy are looking to sign Nayef Aguerd from West Ham United. This comes after Eder Militao sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury in Los Blancos' 4-0 win over Osasuna last weekend.
It has also been reported that the injury is expected to keep him on the sidelines for the rest of the season. In a bid to salvage the situation, Los Blancos are currently looking to sign a centre-back in the forthcoming transfer window.
As one of Carlo Ancelotti's targets, Aguerd is currently on loan at Real Sociedad. He's expected to return to West Ham United at the end of season which marks the expiration of his loan contract.
Aguerd has had a brilliant start to the 2024-25 season, winning 40 ground duels. He has also won 20 aerial duels and registered 30 clearances in nine LaLiga appearances so far.
A brief overview of Real Madrid's current centre-back options could indicate that Antonio Rudiger and Jesus Vallejo are the only fit options at the moment. Hence, Aguerd's potential signing could be key for Ancelotti in the second half of the season.
Real Madrid want to break his loan deal with Real Sociedad and sign him as a makeshift defender in January.
Real Madrid are also interested in signing Aymeric Laporte in January 2025
Another option that Los Blancos are currently looking to sign is Al-Nassr’s Aymeric Laporte, according to a report by AS (via TEAMtalk). Laporte joined Al-Nassr from Manchester City reportedly for €27.50 million in August 2023.
However, he has emerged as one of Ancelotti's targets in the forthcoming transfer window. In terms of experience, Laporte is right up there, having won numerous titles while he was at Manchester City.
As a centre-back in the 2024-25 season, the Spaniard has been excellent in front of goal. He has scored three goals in 15 games for the Saudi Pro League outfit.
As such, his wealth of experience could stand to be pivotal for Real Madrid if signed. He's currently valued at €20 million by Transfermarkt, and it will be interesting to see if he will join the LaLiga giants.