Dean Jones wowed by Lucas Paqueta, ‘definitely’ at risk of West Ham exit
Lucas Paqueta has been West Ham United’s best player this season but remains on the radar of Manchester City, according to Dean Jones.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT (21 October), Jones raved about the Brazilian’s performances for the Hammers this season but noted that he’s done “no harm” to his reputation or a potential move to City.
Per Sky Sports (23 August), Pep Guardiola’s side called off an £80million move for Paqueta amid alleged gambling breaches, but Jones claims the Citizens remain interested.
Jones said: “I don’t think that he’s missed the boat on this one just yet. I think that Manchester City are still interested in Paqueta and he’s done himself absolutely no harm by reflecting and responding to that failed transfer, by putting in such brilliantly consistent performances at West Ham.
“I would go as far to say he’s been one of the players of the season across the league so far, definitely West Ham’s player of the season so far. And so with that in mind, he’s done himself no harm at all in terms of staying in Man City’s thoughts for next year.
“It’s an area of the pitch that Man City continue to consider in terms of how they go about building it. And I think that Paqueta is definitely somebody that remains on their radar. And for all the while that he’s going to continue to be ambitious, he’s got to aim for the very top, which is Man City.”
Rising stock
Paqueta has been a standout performer in David Moyes’ West Ham, so Manchester City’s consistent interest is no surprise.
The 26-year-old has been the heartbeat of the Hammers midfield. Per FBRef, Paqueta has made 17 shot-creating actions, completed more passes than any of his teammates in the Premier League (298) and the most tackles in the squad (25), proving he could cut it under the guidance of Guardiola.
Much of Manchester City’s midfield is ageing and Guardiola never directly replaced Ilkay Gundogan after his move to Barcelona, so Paqueta certainly has a place in their squad.
Should the former AC Milan ace depart Stratford any time soon, West Ham can and will demand a huge fee for him. £80million would be the benchmark offer that the Hammers would take considering City’s £80million offer in the summer, but if Paqueta remains on top form they could ask for even more.
City certainly have the money to spend, but few fans will want to sell their midfield maestro even for such a significant price tag.
In other West Ham news, a journalist has claimed that Aston Villa won’t enjoy their clash with “bogey team” Hammers amid their “incredible” record.