Lucas Paqueta set for West Ham payoff as contract clause detailed – Exclusive
Lucas Paqueta is facing an uncertain future at West Ham.
The Brazilian star is awaiting the conclusion of a Football Association hearing into alleged betting offences that could completely derail his career.
The Hammers ace is accused on being booked on four occasions in order to influence gambling markets, with the FA pushing for Paqueta to receive a lifetime ban.
The 27-year-old has denied any wrongdoing but the consequence could end his footballing days if he is found guilty.
West Ham face Paqueta payoff amid FA hearing
If Paqueta is found to be guilty, it will scupper the Irons’ chances of securing a huge payday from Manchester City for his services.
However, it may also have another financial consequence for the London Stadium outfit as he is likely to receive a payoff, according to Iconic commentator Ian Darke.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, he said: “He could be out for a while, there is probably a clause in his contract, a force majeure, where if he is banned, the club are not obligated to pay him.
“I don’t know what the contract says, but I am pretty sure there would be something where he would get some kind of a payoff.
“If you have broken the rules in that way, I would have thought you were out with the washing a bit.
“I think it would probably be the end of the road for him, he has probably got insurance to cover that kind of end to his career.”
Paqueta and West Ham need urgent answer
Whatever way the hearing is going to go, the E20 club and the player need an answer sooner rather than later.
Paqueta should not have to live with the cloud hanging over him, wondering if he will ever be able to play football again or not, as it has affected his mental health and form on the pitch.
| Stats (Premier League) | Paqueta |
| Matches | 32 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Minutes played | 2,374 |
In terms of Graham Potter‘s summer plans, he also needs a conclusion to be reached whether he is planning to keep the Brazil star or not.
If he is planning to fund a rebuild by selling him, then he needs a not guilty verdict as then they would be free to accept bids from interested clubs.
Alternatively, if he wants to build the team around his creative prowess, then he needs the same verdict as if he cannot play, he cannot be the focal point of the team.
It is vital for the Hammers’ summer plans that the issue is sorted as soon as possible, the longer it drags on, the longer everyone is in limbo.