Olympique de Marseille defender Nayef Aguerd has agreed in principle to return to Real Sociedad, despite interest from Al Sadd and other clubs, in a major development in the Morocco international’s future.
The proposed move would see Aguerd join the Spanish club on loan for a fee, with Real Sociedad receiving the option to sign him permanently at a later stage. Marseille and Real Sociedad have reached an initial agreement, according to reports, in a deal designed to meet the financial and sporting priorities of both clubs.
The switch would take Aguerd back to a club he knows well after a successful loan spell during the 2024-25 season. His previous experience in the Basque Country has helped Real Sociedad emerge strongly in negotiations, with the defender understood to be attracted by the prospect of playing in the Europa League and working again under manager Pellegrino Matarazzo.
Aguerd’s expected departure is part of a wider financial restructuring at Marseille during the summer transfer window. The club are seeking to reduce their wage bill and create additional resources, leading the management to consider offers for several players before the transfer market closes, including some who remain important to the team on the pitch.
The Moroccan centre-back is regarded as one of Marseille’s leading defensive players. He joined the club last summer from a €23m deal and quickly established himself as a key member of the side’s back line.
His performances have attracted interest from a number of clubs. Alongside Real Sociedad’s approach, Aguerd had received offers from clubs in the Gulf region, with Al Sadd among the most prominent. Rennes had also previously shown interest before the €15m release clause in his contract expired.
The latest developments have changed the direction of a transfer story that had appeared to be moving towards a possible switch to Al Sadd. Instead, Aguerd has accepted the idea of returning to Real Sociedad, where he would be given another opportunity to compete in European football.
His potential exit comes as Marseille prepare for further changes to their squad and finances. Argentina defender Facundo Medina is also close to completing a move to Bayer Leverkusen for €25m, according to reports.
For Marseille, the agreement with Real Sociedad would provide greater financial flexibility while allowing the club to manage the future of a player who remains highly valued technically. For Aguerd, meanwhile, the proposed loan would take him back to a familiar sporting environment and restore his link with Real Sociedad after his successful 2024-25 campaign there.
