In an unprecedented step, Flamengo have ramped up their efforts to sign Lucas Paquetá from West Ham United by making a public statement.
Flamengo sporting director José Boto has openly spoken of his desire to land the Hammers’ record signing, but there appears to be one glaring issue: they cannot afford him.
Boto said:
“This is the first and last time I’m going to talk about it. We really want Paquetá, and he really wants to come. In negotiations, there’s always a third party involved, and that third party isn’t very convinced about selling Paquetá.
“We’ve made significant progress on this issue, but it’s a very difficult operation. These are high values and a player of a very high calibre. We have to be patient in negotiating with West Ham.
“It’s not exclusive to Brazilian clubs to pay in instalments. All clubs in the world pay in instalments. There are a series of dealings that take time. We wanted Paquetá here already, and we’re working very hard to make it happen.
“The main obstacle is financial. These are high amounts, which we’ve already reduced significantly. But there’s the payment structure… he’s a top player, and it’s not easy. But I’m an optimist by nature.”
West Ham Hold Firm on Valuation
Reading between the lines, it is clear the Brazilian club are struggling to meet the fee and are looking to spread payments as thinly as possible. Claret & Hugh spoke to a source close to the player yesterday, who insisted the deal “wasn’t close”.
If Flamengo can come up with something approaching a €43m deal, including a sizeable upfront payment, they should be able to sign Paquetá. What is abundantly clear, however, is that West Ham have no intention of selling him on the cheap.
I’m sure if we were desperate for a Brazilian international during the January transfer window the selling club would be tripping over themselves to give us a discount and make it as easy as possible for us….not.
Good, maybe they should throw in some players to make it happen. If everyone agrees it’s in the best interests am sure something can be figured out.
I really want a Ferrari, and I’m sure a Ferrari would’ve to come to my house, please Ferrari give me a massive discount! Life doesn’t work like that, get stuffed Flamengo!!
This would be the Flamengo who just earned $30 million at the World Club tournament.
If Flamengo are not willing to pay the price Paqueta then although he wants the move he must accept that we are not going to reduce the price just to accommodate them.
So cough up or shut up
Paqueta sorry it is not our fault and you now need to knuckle down and play your heart out for us, we stood by you now it is pay back time to us, help us beat the drop and play well and move on in the summer if the right offer comes in
There’s been lots of talk about Flamengo having a ton of money to spend, so if they want him – PAY UP!
Contradictory previous articles have said Flamingo are mega rich.
Crying on the shoulder of POOR whu won’t solve their wants.