West Ham to sanction Lucas Paqueta move after £80m deal was ‘agreed in principle’ – sources
West Ham expect Man City to move again for midfield star Lucas Paqueta, sources have told Football Insider.
The Irons are anticipating a new bid for the 26-year-old if he is cleared by the FA of betting rule breaches.
Football Insider revealed on 20 February that West Ham midfielder Paqueta and his camp are plotting legal action against the FA if they decide not to charge him.
The investigation started last summer and it is believed the Brazil international was left “deeply unhappy” that the news denied him a move to Man City.
Pep Guardiola’s side remain interested and are lurking in the background ahead of the summer window.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that West Ham won’t stand in the midfielder’s way if their asking price is met as they know Paqueta is keen on the move.
City had agreed an £80million deal in principle before the deal collapsed but were forced to turn attention to signing Wolves star Matheus Nunes after the investigation went public.
Paqueta has continued to play for West Ham and Brazil despite the ongoing situation.
He has made 33 appearances across all competitions in the 2023-24 campaign, notching seven goals and six assists.
The 26-year-old joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022 and has a contract with the club running until June 2027 – with an option for an extra year.
He has primarily played on the left flank for David Moyes’ side this term but can also feature in attacking midfield.
In other news, Irons plot raid for Premier League hotshot.
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