Man Utd to launch bid? – Three clubs West Ham star Paqueta could join
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is set to learn the outcome of his spot-betting case on Friday.
The Brazilian was placed under investigation almost two years ago for allegedly getting booked deliberately to influence betting markets.
It would take a year for him to be officially charged by the FA, with the hearing taking place earlier this year and concluding in June.
If Paqueta is cleared of the charges, a move away looks to be likely. Here, West Ham Zone suggests three clubs that the midfielder could move to.
Flamengo
Paqueta started his career at Flamengo, moving to AC Milan in 2019 after making 67 appearances for the Brazilian side.
It would not be a surprise to see the midfielder seek a return to his home city, having struggled emotionally since the emergence of the FA’s investigation.
But West Ham would likely look to recoup at least a sizable chunk of the £51million they spent to sign him from Lyon in 2022, which could make a potential deal difficult for Flamengo.
Manchester United
Although it was Manchester City who were close to completing a deal for Paqueta before the news broke of the allegations against the midfielder, it could be their neighbours who are better placed for a deal this summer.
Ruben Amorim’s side are in need of further reinforcements in midfield, having almost solely depended on the contributions of Bruno Fernandes last season, and Paqueta could offer an exciting option.
The Red Devils certainly have the funds available and have already signed an international teammate of the Brazilian, in Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
Al-Hilal
Should Paqueta demand a move this summer, the Saudi Pro League would likely be at the top of West Ham’s list of possible destinations for the midfielder.
Al-Hilal are among several clubs backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund and would likely be willing to refund the money the Hammers spent to sign Paqueta, at least.
The Brazilian’s attitude towards a potential move to Saudi Arabia is unclear, but the money involved could easily sway any decision.
Paqueta would offer an option Al-Hilal lack within their squad, with Ruben Neves and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic the other standouts in Simone Inzaghi’s midfield.
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