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Nayef Aguerd Reportedly Turns Down Napoli as Future Remains Uncertain

The Moroccan defender has reportedly rejected a move to Napoli, with transfer expert Santi Aouna claiming Aguerd's preferred destination was a return to Real Sociedad before the proposed deal broke down.

By the Atlas Lions Editorial Desk16 Aug 2026How we report

Nayef Aguerd's summer transfer saga has taken another unexpected turn.

According to French journalist Santi Aouna, the Moroccan international had already informed Napoli that he did not want to join the Italian club, despite being linked with a move to the Serie A champions during the current transfer window.

Aguerd Had Another Destination in Mind

Aouna reports that Aguerd's preference was to return to Real Sociedad, where he previously spent time on loan and made a strong impression during his spell in San Sebastián.

The Moroccan defender reportedly viewed a return to the Basque club as an attractive option, making Napoli less appealing as his next destination.

Real Sociedad Move Hits a Roadblock

Aguerd's situation became particularly intriguing after his return to Real Sociedad appeared increasingly close.

The clubs reportedly reached a preliminary agreement, while the player also underwent medical examinations. However, the proposed transfer eventually stalled during the final stages.

That unexpected development has now left Aguerd facing an uncertain future.

A Decision Driven by Sporting Ambition

The reported decision to turn down Napoli appears to reflect Aguerd's desire to choose a project that fits his sporting ambitions rather than simply accepting the next available opportunity.

The Moroccan defender has established himself at the highest level of European football, and his next move could play an important role in the next stage of his career.

What Comes Next?

With the Real Sociedad return no longer straightforward and Napoli reportedly off the table, attention now turns to the other possibilities that could emerge before the transfer window closes.

Aguerd's situation remains one of the more intriguing Moroccan transfer stories of the summer.

For now, the destination remains unknown—but one thing appears clear: Nayef Aguerd wants his next chapter to be one that matches his ambitions on the pitch.

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