Manchester City transfer news as West Ham United ace Lucas Paqueta shocked by allegations
The proposed Manchester City move for West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is currently on hold and not completely off, according to Kaveh Solhekol.
The Sky Sports journalist reported on Friday (18 August) that the Brazilian was left shocked by allegations of him betting on his own games.
It’s understood that an £80million deal for the Citizens to sign the 25-year-old was close to being agreed but as of now, it’s not likely to happen.
Via Twitter, Solhekol wrote, “Man City move for Lucas Paqueta is on hold because of concerns surrounding a FIFA / FA betting investigation.
“Player is surprised and shocked. Investigation is believed to be about bets that were placed in Brazil, not by him. No bets on his bank statements.
“£80m deal to City had almost been agreed and could still happen if this issue is cleared up quickly. In the meantime, Paqueta focused and available to play for West Ham as usual.”
Twists and turns
It’s never a dull day at the London Stadium, is it? Nobody would’ve thought that this would be the reason Paqueta’s move to City may be in jeopardy.
If he was to stay, many would’ve thought that it would be due to City not paying up what the Hammers are demanding for him.
The same thing happened in the Declan Rice saga which saw the defending champions walking away from the deal.
However, until this controversy is resolved, there is no chance that Paqueta will be moving clubs this summer.
It does not seem like he will be banned from playing for West Ham so there’s every chance of him being in the eleven against Chelsea.
Whether or not a resolution is reached before the window shuts, remains to be seen, but City will be smart to look at other options.
In other West Ham news, the club have now opened advanced talks with a Premier League player who appears to be open on leaving his side this summer.