West Ham have completed the £30 million signing of Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd from Rennes.

Aguerd has joined the Hammers on a five-year contract for £30 million; Newcastle were also interested in the 26-year-old centre-back; the Hammers are also interested in permanently signing Alphone Areola.

Nayef Aguerd, a defender from Rennes, has joined West Ham.

The Moroccan defender has agreed to terms with David Moyes’ Hammers on a five-year contract worth around £30 million, including add-ons.

Aguerd is Moyes’ first signing in the transfer window, as West Ham look to strengthen their squad ahead of a season that will see them improve in the Premier League while also competing in the Europa Conference League for the first time.

“I was ecstatic when I heard about West Ham United’s interest,” he said.

“West Ham United is a storied club. I went to a few of their games this year, and the fans and atmosphere were fantastic, especially with the bubbles! I spoke with the manager, and he demonstrated that he was very interested, so it was an easy decision to come to West Ham.”

Moyes added, “I am delighted to welcome Nayef to West Ham United.” “We had been following his progress for some time, and I’m delighted that we were able to complete the signing. He’s a great addition who will help us on defence.” During our discussions, I was very impressed with Nayef’s character and attitude. He has a strong desire to improve and succeed, and I am confident he will.

In the run-up to the 2021/22 season, David Moyes’ side drew the corresponding fixture 2-2, briefly giving Liverpool hope in the title race when they took a 2-0 lead.

West Ham, who finished seventh and qualified for the Europa Conference League, travel to newly promoted Nottingham Forest before hosting Brighton, whom they have never beaten in the Premier League.

The Hammers host Leicester City on November 12 before the World Cup in Qatar, and they return to Premier League action on Boxing Day at the Emirates against Arsenal.

West Ham’s final home game of the season is against Leeds on May 20 before finishing the season at Leicester City on May 22.