West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta

Raheem Sterling could be Lucas Paqueta replacement at West Ham United

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior sports journalist with experience at GRV Media and VAVEL; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Exclusive content, statistical analysis, and deep-dive reporting across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Max utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, exclusive reporting and data-driven insight. He provides the intelligence behind the stories to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on:

13 Jun 2024, 12:10 pm

West Ham United are facing plenty of uncertainty around the future of Lucas Paqueta.

The Sun reported (3 June) that the Football Association would want to hand the attacking midfielder a lifetime ban if charges against him for betting breaches are proven, allegations the player has consistently denied.

Even away from that ongoing process, Paqueta has long-since been linked with an exit from the London Stadium and Julen Lotegui might have to plan for life without the 26-year-old Brazilian.

And it might be the Hammers have already found their replacement after West Ham were linked with the signing of England forward Raheem Sterling with Chelsea reportedly looking to part ways with the the former Manchester City ace as he doesn't fit their long-term plans [TBR Football].

The forward is said to be in no rush to leave Stamford Bridge due to his lucrative contract but an offer of regular first-team football might tempt him.

A move for the 29-year-old could be an option that technical director Tim Steidten considers if West Ham are to lose Paqueta.

Raheem Sterling could plug Lucas Paqueta hole at West Ham

Now, these two aren't like-for-like players but would allow for someone like Mohammed Kudus to operate from the centre of the pitch.

The Ghanaian has the versatility to operate from the wing or as a number 10, which could be something that Lopetegui looks to utilise.

Similarly Sterling has the ability to play on either flank or even as a second striker when needed.

This would allow the new Hammers head coach to chop and change his team throughout the season depending on the opposition.

Lucas Paqueta's potential ban could leave West Ham short of options in midfield.

Losing Paqueta would be a huge miss there is no doubt. He brings a guile and arrogance that makes West Ham a much better team than they are without him.

But Sterling would bring Premier League experience and is also someone who has a point to prove after plenty of criticism during his time at Stamford Bridge.

In other West Ham news, Lucas Paqueta slammed by Brazilian media after what he did v USA.

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West Ham United

Chelsea

Raheem Sterling

Lucas Paqueta

Mohammed Kudus