West Ham and Nuno Espirito Santo are ready to dig in their heels following reports of a January transfer raid on the London Stadium.
Earlier today, speculation emerged suggesting Brazilian giants Flamengo were preparing a bid for Lucas Paquetá, with some outlets claiming the club were ready to test West Ham’s resolve.
However, Claret & Hugh have spoken exclusively to a representative close to the player, who confirmed that the Hammers’ record signing will not be allowed to leave in January.
“Lucas is not going to leave in January. The manager loves him,” our source said.
Brazilan clubs could test West Ham with a bid for Paqueta
Paquetá Key to West Ham’s Survival
Short and to the point, but the message is clear — Paquetá is staying put.
The 28-year-old, who will miss West Ham’s next match against Bournemouth through suspension, is considered vital to Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans as the club battles to stay in the Premier League.
With Paquetá showing no desire to push for a move, insiders at Rush Green have insisted there is “no chance” of the Brazilian leaving mid-season.
A training ground source backed up that view, telling us to ignore the speculation, adding once again that there is “no chance” of Paquetá going anywhere this winter.
So, while Flamengo may be sniffing around, West Ham’s stance couldn’t be firmer — Nuno’s star playmaker is going nowhere.
I’ve noticed that Nuno is particularly gushing with praise when he talks about Paqueta over the past few weeks, which seems to have coincided with way more consistent performances on the pitch. IMO that’s just good man management – he’s quickly become aware that he needs his ego stroked.
In fairness, Moyes was probably the last coach who had different approaches to talking publicly about each player (though i never understood why he was constantly so harsh to Benrahma!)