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West Ham Exclusive “That Would Relegate us” Hammers Insider Kills Paqueta Man U Deal

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West Ham Issue Hands of Warning to Interested Clubs

West Ham United have come out fighting following reports from Fabrizio Romano suggesting a potential triple transfer swap with Manchester United in January.

The Italian insider claimed earlier today that the Hammers had shown serious interest in Old Trafford duo Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo. However, later in his update, Romano revealed that Manchester United also remain keen on signing West Ham’s record purchase Lucas Paquetá, sparking speculation that an exchange of players could be on the cards.

That suggestion has been swiftly dismissed by West Ham.

Ruben Amorim ponders the signing of Lucas Paqueta

Manchester United boss Amorim is keen on West Ham record signing Lucas Paqueta

Club Stand Firm Over Paquetá

When a trusted Claret & Hugh source contacted the club for clarification, they were told in no uncertain terms:

“We will not sell Lucas Paquetá. He’s going nowhere. We are not looking to get relegated.”

The message was simple — selling their star playmaker midway through a relegation fight would be suicidal.

Paquetá reminded everyone of his quality with a wonder goal in last weekend’s 3–1 win over Newcastle and was outstanding throughout the game. He remains highly regarded by manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who was quick to highlight his importance to the team:

“We have to get the best out of Lucas. He is a number 10 — it’s a special role in the team.”

Both the club and the player’s representatives are on the same page. When Claret & Hugh spoke to a source close to the Brazilian, we were told once again: “Paquetá is not pushing for a move.”

In short — there will be no swap deal, no exit, and no January drama. Lucas Paquetá is staying at West Ham.

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Kris Gonzo (commonly known to the West Ham community as Gonzo) is the co-founder of Hammers Chat (established 2014) and the lead video content creator and columnist for Claret and Hugh.

With over a decade of professional sports media experience, he is a frequent West Ham United analyst and contributor for Sky Sports News, BBC Football Focus, and BBC Radio 5 Live. He previously served as an official video and content creator for West Ham United FC during the club's tenure at Upton Park and featured in the official documentary commemorating the historic final game at the Boleyn Ground.

A lifelong Hammer since the legendary 10-0 victory over Bury, when he isn't providing daily match analysis on the Hammers Chat YouTube Channel or broadcasting on X (@GONZObignose), he can be found walking his dog and restoring classic pinball machines.