Column inches have been focussed recently on Lucas Paqueta, with suggestions that he will look to leave West Ham pending the outcome of the investigation into alleged betting breaches.
Flamengo has emerged as the front runner for his signature, with reports suggesting that the Brazilian midfielder is willing to accept a pay cut to facilitate the move. West Ham are also allegedly prepared to cut their losses to make that deal happen.
Currently the player is one of the club’s top earners on £150k a week, and has two years remaining on his contract, with an additional year’s option in the clubs favour.
At his peak, Paqueta was valued at around £80m – a fee Manchester City were previously prepared to meet. West Ham signed him from Olympique Lyon in August 2022 for €42.95m rising to €58m with add ons to secure his services. Prior to that AC Milan had acquired him for €38.4m in January 2019, only to sell him to Lyon in September 2020 for €23m, though they did include a 15% sell on clause.
Paqueta’s career at Milan was short lived and underwhelming, with reports citing difficulties integrating with the squad, his wife’s struggles settling in Italy, and the departure of close friend Leonardo to PSG. The midfielder later admitted to feeling “lonely” during that time, affected by harsh judgements and unsure how to cope.
Things at Lyon improved, where he found a more supportive environment, developed friendships, and excelled on the pitch. His performances earned him the title of Ligue 1’s best Foreign Player in 2021-22.
Turning 28 in August this year, Paqueta’s form at West Ham has been inconsistent, likely due to the shadow of the FA’s betting investigation. Should he be cleared, he’s expected to attract significant interest in the summer – especially as the club looks to generate funds for reinforcements.
West Ham must avoid repeating past mistakes, such as their handling of Dimitri Payet’s return to Marseille. Flamengo could be a stepping stone for one last big move elsewhere, and the Brazilian club could benefit from a major future transfer if West Ham accept a low ball offer.
Claret and Hugh were informed by a reliable source that West Ham turned down a £20m bid previously from Flamengo, despite being open to including a sell on clause. Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most popular and wealthiest clubs with over 47 million supporters are expected to reignite this interest.
However the immediate priority for Paqueta is clearing his name in the ongoing FA investigation – a crucial step before any transfer can realistically proceed. At that point, if found innocent, he will be at a crossroad in his career.
Lucas Paqueta denies all of the FA allegations made against him.
I thought it was city all week ..now flamengo and if cleared why on earth would we let him go for less than the release clause …?