West Ham United Edge Closer to £35.8m Lucas Paqueta Transfer Agreement
West Ham United are reportedly on the verge of sanctioning a significant exit before the transfer window closes, with midfielder Lucas Paqueta poised for a return to his former club Flamengo in Brazil. The deal, valued at approximately £35.8 million, comes as the Hammers prepare for a crucial Premier League clash against Chelsea this week.
Transfer Talks Intensify Between Clubs
According to recent reports from Sky Sports and The Guardian, negotiations between West Ham and Flamengo have advanced significantly. The Brazilian side had previously seen a bid of £32.9 million upfront plus £3 million in add-ons rejected, but a revised offer of £35.8 million is now under serious consideration. While not yet formally accepted, there is growing optimism from Flamengo that an agreement can be reached imminently.
The clubs are currently focused on finalising the payment structure of the deal, with discussions said to be moving in the right direction. Flamengo are keen to have Paqueta registered by Thursday, in time for their season opener against Sao Paulo.
Paqueta's Absence and Recent Form
Lucas Paqueta has been conspicuously absent from West Ham's matchday squads for their last two fixtures – victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland. These wins have been vital in boosting the Hammers' hopes of avoiding relegation, as they remain five points adrift of safety after Nottingham Forest's win over Brentford.
This season, the Brazilian midfielder has made 18 Premier League appearances, contributing four goals and one assist. His potential departure follows a summer where he was linked with moves away but chose to stay at West Ham, partly due to the club's support during his investigation into spot-fixing charges. He was cleared by an independent regulatory commission in July.
Manager's Perspective and Upcoming Fixture
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo addressed the situation after Saturday's win over Sunderland, stating: "What I hope is the situation to be solved as soon as possible. Every part involved has to be solved and to be clear, so we have a direction to move forward."
Reflecting on the Sunderland performance, Nuno praised his team's improvement in the second half and the crucial support from fans. However, attention now turns to Wednesday's trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea, where it appears increasingly likely that Paqueta will not be part of the travelling squad.
The potential transfer represents a significant moment for West Ham as they balance squad management with their ongoing battle for Premier League survival.
