Lucas Paqueta, a star player for West Ham United, is reportedly drawing considerable interest from elite clubs ahead of the summer transfer window, which provides an interesting update on his future.
West Ham must fight to retain Paqueta
Alongside winger Jarrod Bowen, the Brazil international has been David Moyes’ standout player of the year.
This season, Paqueta has started 20 league games for Moyes, recording five assists and two goals. His energy and creativity are evident to all.
Last summer, Man City showed a great deal of interest in signing the former Lyon player, but they ultimately decided against it when Paqueta’s alleged gambling violations were investigated (Fabrizio Romano).
It is thought Manchester City, Aston Villa, Arsenal, and possibly Tottenham may make a bid for Paqueta after that probe is concluded.
Increasing interest in the South American will be a serious concern for West Ham’s head coach, who undoubtedly won’t want to lose Moyes, should the two decide to work together after this season.
Declan Rice, a former club captain and fan favourite, had to leave them earlier last year after agreeing to a £105 million transfer to London rivals Arsenal.
Behind the scenes, Paqueta is promised by West Ham.
Journalist Dean Jones provided some context for West Ham’s efforts to keep Paqueta at the London Stadium by stating that the team is keeping Paqueta under wraps by promising him things behind closed doors in an effort to discourage prospective purchasers.
“I don’t think that Aston Villa would be a bad move for Paqueta, to be honest. But, if he is going to leave West Ham, it’s going to take something special in terms of what they are promising him for the future,” said Jones to GiveMeSport.
Considering his performances across the season, you could probably say that he is West Ham’s most important player in terms of making that team tick. Villa obviously have their work cut out in terms of signing him because I have heard that Manchester City are still interested in him and might have something to say about where he goes next.
“I can’t believe for one second that Villa would be able to sign Paqueta without some competition from Manchester City. It’s a tough deal to do – and probably expensive – but I think it is also a reflection of just where Villa are right now and where they’re heading.”
Finding out exactly what West Ham is ‘offering’ Paqueta will be interesting, but if they are forced to sell, rumours indicate they may potentially lose £85 million if a club chooses to use the buy-out clause in his contract.
