West Ham in PSR limbo as Paqueta saga drags on – Exclusive
West Ham could be in line to face new PSR problems at the London Stadium.
The Hammers are yet to open their chequebook in the summer and could face issues when the time comes to do so.
Head coach Graham Potter is yet to complete a first-team signing and will be keen to put his own stamp on the claret and blue outfit before the new campaign.
The Englishman may struggle to do so as financial issues look set to rear their head as the Lucas Paqueta controversy rumbles on in East London.
Paqueta delay causes PSR issue at West Ham
In August 2023, news broke of the Brazil international’s inclusion in a spot-fixing probe, which looked set to have implications for the E20 club.
Nearly two years later, and no one is any the wiser as to the fate of the 27-year-old despite the FA hearing coming to an end.
Now, a potential two-month wait lies ahead of the attacking midfielder, which looks set to have a telling impact at the London Stadium.
This comes after West Ham Zone was informed by a source close to the East London club that uncertainty surrounding Paqueta was leaving the Hammers without financial clarity.
If the ex-Lyon man is to avoid punishment, a sale could be on the table, while a lifetime ban could leave the E20 hierarchy down a blind alley.
As a result, the Irons could be forced to sell a number of first-team players before Potter is able to add to his squad in the upcoming summer window.
West Ham may face PSR punishment next season
It is fair to say that widespread frustration has been caused by the time that this FA process is taking, given how long the Brazilian has waited for a verdict.
This has even seen Paqueta break down in tears against Tottenham as the nature of the trial continues to take a toll on his mental health and general form.
| Stat (Premier League 24/25) | Lucas Paqueta |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 0 |
That is beginning to be felt by the London Stadium board, who could face financial problems in the coming months if a verdict isn’t reached.
This will be far from ideal for Potter, who may be forced to lose top players like Mohammed Kudus as a potentially difficult summer window looms.