What appeared to be a completed move has suddenly taken an unexpected turn.
Morocco international Nayef Aguerd has reportedly withdrawn from his proposed return to Real Sociedad, despite passing his medical and with Marseille and the Spanish club having already agreed the terms of the deal.
A Dramatic Late Change
According to Foot Mercato, Aguerd reversed his decision following a conversation with Real Sociedad head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo.
The details of that conversation have not been disclosed, leaving the exact reason behind the defender's change of heart unclear.
The development comes just one day after reports indicated that Aguerd had successfully completed his medical and was expected to finalize his return to San Sebastián.
The Deal Was Almost Complete
The proposed transfer had reached the final stages, with Real Sociedad reportedly agreeing to pay Marseille around €3 million for a season-long loan, accompanied by a €17 million purchase option.
Aguerd had previously enjoyed a successful loan spell at Real Sociedad during the 2024-25 season and was reportedly keen on returning to the Basque club.
His familiarity with the team, the city, and Spanish football made him a priority target for the club's defensive plans.
Marseille Now Face a New Decision
Aguerd remains a Marseille player, meaning his reported withdrawal forces the French club to reassess its plans for the Moroccan defender.
Marseille had viewed his departure as part of their squad restructuring, but the collapse of the agreement could now see Aguerd return to the first-team picture.
Coach Bruno Genesio had already emphasized earlier in the week that Aguerd remained a Marseille player while negotiations were ongoing, leaving the door open for the defender's continued involvement.
A Challenging Period After Injury
The Moroccan defender has also been working his way back from injury.
Aguerd underwent surgery in March for a persistent pubic problem, which prevented him from representing Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He has since returned to Marseille's preseason preparations and has reportedly been progressing well in his recovery.
Real Sociedad Must Look Elsewhere
For Real Sociedad, the sudden collapse represents a major change to their defensive plans.
The Spanish club had identified Aguerd as an ideal left-footed central defender, particularly because of his previous experience with the team.
Now, with the transfer reportedly off at the final stage, Real Sociedad must once again explore the market for a defensive reinforcement.
One conversation changed the course of an almost completed transfer, and Nayef Aguerd's next chapter now remains one of the most intriguing stories of the closing stages of the transfer window.