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| Lucas Paqueta (Picture by Transfermarkt) |
According to reports, West Ham star Lucas Paqueta might be nearing an unexpected transfer back to Brazil in January.
In the summer of 2022, Paqueta joined London Stadium for £36.5 million plus additional incentives (according to BBC Sport) and swiftly became an essential player.
As of now, the Brazil international with 54 caps has accumulated 15 goals and 14 assists in a total of 97 appearances across various competitions. This includes contributing one goal and four assists to aid West Ham's victory in the UEFA Conference League in 2023.
However, this season Paqueta's performance has significantly declined, leaving fans frustrated by several lackluster displays.
That's not surprising, considering the 27-year-old is currently facing gambling charges that could result in a lifetime ban from football if proven guilty.
As of now, the Brazil international with 54 caps has accumulated 15 goals and 14 assists in a total of 97 appearances across various competitions. This includes contributing one goal and four assists to aid West Ham's victory in the UEFA Conference League in 2023.
However, this season Paqueta's performance has significantly declined, leaving fans frustrated by several lackluster displays.
That's not surprising, considering the 27-year-old is currently facing gambling charges that could result in a lifetime ban from football if proven guilty.
Is Lucas Paqueta set to depart from West Ham?
With his peak performance seemingly in the past and West Ham requiring funds after substantial summer expenditures, Paqueta could emerge as a leading candidate for a sale this January.
Indeed, as reported by The Sun, Brazilian club Botafogo—currently leading the Serie A standings—is preparing to make an offer for Paqueta.
Moreover, it is believed that West Ham has a genuine interest in Manchester City youngster James McAtee.
McAtee had two impressive seasons on loan with Sheffield United but has only logged 311 minutes across all competitions this season. Under Guardiola, he's been given just one minute of play in the Premier League.
The England youth international might be available for £20 million in January, and if he joins West Ham, the club could feel comfortable approving Paqueta's departure.
After a challenging start to their first 11 games under Julen Lopetegui, West Ham is currently ranked 14th in the Premier League table.
The Hammers are only seven points away from third place in this tightly contested table, and they will be heading to Newcastle United for their first match following the international break.
Indeed, as reported by The Sun, Brazilian club Botafogo—currently leading the Serie A standings—is preparing to make an offer for Paqueta.
Moreover, it is believed that West Ham has a genuine interest in Manchester City youngster James McAtee.
McAtee had two impressive seasons on loan with Sheffield United but has only logged 311 minutes across all competitions this season. Under Guardiola, he's been given just one minute of play in the Premier League.
The England youth international might be available for £20 million in January, and if he joins West Ham, the club could feel comfortable approving Paqueta's departure.
After a challenging start to their first 11 games under Julen Lopetegui, West Ham is currently ranked 14th in the Premier League table.
The Hammers are only seven points away from third place in this tightly contested table, and they will be heading to Newcastle United for their first match following the international break.