Lucas Paqueta set for ‘shocking’ West Ham exit amid £35m developments
Lucas Paqueta is edging closer to an exit from West Ham.
West Ham’s 3-1 win over Sunderland, which preceded their victory away to Spurs, has boosted their chances of survival significantly, though they are still adrift of safety.
With the arrivals of Taty Castellanos and Pablo, Nuno Espirito Santo has had his squad bolstered, though several exits in the coming days could also weaken it.
Among those looking as though they will be departing the London Stadium is Paqueta, who has set his heart on a move back to Brazil.
Price has already been set for Lucas Paqueta exit
Paqueta has been a quality player for West Ham, but his performance levels have dropped massively over the last 12 months.
The Brazilian has managed just one assist in his last two seasons, despite often being looked at to create the opportunities.
As a result, it’s unlikely that his exit will be too detrimental to West Ham’s survival chances, though they may be set to bank less than expected.
That is because Vene Casagrande has reported that the price for his transfer to Flamengo has been fixed at £35.75million, which is slightly less than the £43m reported earlier in the week.
The transfer is edging closer to completion, with Fichajes labelling the move as “the most shocking transfer in recent Brazilian football history.”
Now, it seems more a case of when as opposed to if.
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Will West Ham look to replace Paqueta?
Quite frankly, they need to. However, there is an argument that they already have.
Since Paqueta’s absence in West Ham’s win against Tottenham, Pablo has been utilised in the 10 role, and he could prove to be the replacement.
With that said, with West Ham linked with James McAtee among several other attacking midfielders, they may look to use the fee received from Paqueta’s sale on a replacement.
While Paqueta may not have influenced much this season in terms of goals or assists, he has still played a crucial role in transition, and that will be felt even more if he isnt replaced appropriately.
If that is to be the case, West Ham have until 7pm on 2 February, which is when the winter transfer window officially closes.
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