This is the ridiculous sum of money West Ham have lost on Lucas Paqueta thanks to FA trial
Lucas Paqueta has finally been cleared after the FA hearing against the West Ham star concluded.
The London Stadium ace was accused of deliberately being booked on four separate occasions to influence gambling markets.
However, he always maintained his innocence and that has proven to be the case after the prolonged trial finally came to an end.
Graham Potter‘s side were furious with the length that it took and can finally get on with preparations for the new season, without the shadow hanging over them.
Here, West Ham Zone looks at how much the Hammers have lost due to the case being brought against Paqueta.
West Ham lose out massively after Paqueta hearing
The Irons had agreed in principle on an £80million transfer with Manchester City, but that was shelved due to the investigation. [Sky Sports]
The Hammers star is now reported to be worth just £30m, with Brazilian outfit Flamengo being heavily linked with his services.
That represents a loss of £50m, which would have been a huge amount for Potter or his predecessor, Julen Lopetegui, to rebuild the squad with.
Paqueta may as well stay at West Ham
The Hammers have supported Paqueta throughout the trial, as it took its toll on his mental health and on-pitch ability.
He could now choose to repay them by staying in East London and performing better with the shackles off after being cleared of any charges that were brought against him.
It makes absolutely no sense to sell him for £30m, as he is worth far more than that to Potter’s side on the pitch when he is at his best.
The fact that the saga has dragged on for two years is a disgrace, and David Sullivan and Co would be fully entitled to seek compensation from the FA, although it is reported that they are unlikely to do so.
One thing is for sure, Potter can now get on with his plans in the market, whether that is building his team around the star who notched the equaliser in the pre-season friendly against Everton (30 July) or selling him.
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