West Ham are targetting defensive reinforcements this summer, and have turned their eyes toward Rennes centre-back Nayef Aguerd ahead of a potential move, according to reports.

The Hammers have struggled with centre-backs this summer, largely through injury. Both Angelo Ogbonna and Issa Diop have suffered season-ending injuries, while Kurt Zouma has also spent significant time on the treatment table. That has left Craig Dawson, now 32 years old, as a mainstay of the defence, and has resulted in him racking up over 4000 minutes.

Clearly then, centre-back is going to be a key area this summer, along with striker to take some of the pressure off Michail Antonio, another 32 year old that has racked up over 3500 minutes this campaign.

And to that end, West Ham are reportedly set to target Moroccan defender Aguerd, currently plying his trade with high-flying Rennes. The 26 year old has been a key part of a side challenging for Champions League football next season.

The Ligue 1 defender is under contract until 2025, meaning that it could take a sizeable bid to dislodge him, but he would certainly provide another much-needed body in central defence for the Hammers.

West Ham lead the way for Nketiah

Meanwhile, West Ham have emerged in ‘pole position’ for Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah this summer, it has been reported.

The forward, who is set to leave north London for nothing this summer when his contract ends, has put the cat firmly amongst the pigeons with a series of strong performances leading the line for the Gunners in the last month, providing 4 goals and 1 assist in 4 outings so far.

But, according to the Daily Mail, he could be making the move across London to turn out for West Ham come next season.

Adding the young striker would, on the face of it, be a very efficient and sensible piece of business.

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