Journalist shares what sources now indicate about Manchester City move for West Ham United ace Lucas Paqueta
Manchester City are willing to look elsewhere if they deem demands set by West Ham for Lucas Paqueta to be unreasonable, according to the Athletic journalist Mark Critchley.
Writing for the publication on Friday (11 August), Critchley stated that sources have said the Premier League champions have other options to explore if a deal gets too pricy.
However, he added that the Hammers face a battle to keep hold of a player who joined less than a year ago on a contract until 2027 as Paqueta is keen to make the move to play under Pep Guardiola.
West Ham’s interest in Manchester City winger Cole Palmer could still play a key role in negotiations, with the Hammers seeking either a loan or a permanent move.
On Thursday, it was reported by Foot Mercato that West Ham – who have reportedly rejected two verbal offers – are asking for £97million to get the deal done.
In the balance
One thing is for sure, this deal is not quite as cut and dry as Declan Rice’s exit to Arsenal.
The West Ham skipper was always going to depart the London Stadium during this transfer window, the only annoyance was why it took quite so long for the £105million switch to the Gunners to get over the line.
This one is a little different because Paqueta still has a long time left on his contract, albeit he has a reported £85m release clause in his contract that kicks in next year.
West Ham have to decide whether it is worth keeping a player who might become disillusioned if he is not allowed to make the switch to Manchester to play for Guardiola.
It really is a difficult one because losing two players of the calibre of Rice and Paqueta would be a huge blow. And it would leave them with plenty of cash that clubs will look to exploit when bringing in reinforcements. It’s fair to say this deal is well and truly in the balance.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have expressed interest in PSV winger Johan Bakayoko.