Flamengo give West Ham United assurances over Lucas Paqueta in £50m+ transfer update
Flamengo are willing to honour the contract of Lucas Paqueta even if the West Ham United ace is banned by FIFA, according to ESPN.
The news outlet reported via its website on Thursday (July 4) that Flamengo reached out to the Irons weeks ago over striking a loan arrangement that would help United recoup some of the £50million-plus transfer fee splashed out on the 26-year-old.
The Brazilian club are said to be actively working on the transfer, hoping to finalise it during this window.
Paqueta has a potential ban from football hanging over his head after being accused of breaching the Premier League’s betting rules.
A move away from West Ham United could be good short-term solution for Lucas Paqueta
Paqueta’s current situation at West Ham is anything but ideal.
With betting charges looming and the stress clearly affecting him, it’s no wonder Julen Lopetegui says the player and his family are “suffering” [Fabrizio Romano].
A move back to Flamengo could be just what he needs right now. At Flamengo, Paqueta would be back in familiar surroundings, with passionate fans and a supportive environment that could help him through these tough times.
Flamengo’s willingness to honour the contract even if he faces FIFA sanctions also shows their commitment.
For the Hammers, letting Paqueta go might be a smart move to recoup some of their investment for the time being.
For Paqueta, returning to a club he loves could bring back his joy for the game, as we saw in his recent Copa America performance, meaning this move could be a win for everyone involved.
However, Lopetegui will of course be reluctant to let one of the club’s standout stars depart permanently. What everyone could do with is an update on the betting charges, as that ultimately will sway this decision.
In other West Ham news, the club have made a decision on the chase for Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo.
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