Lopetegui to get West Ham United war chest, door open for player to return to London Stadium
Julen Lopetegui could be given £85million to spend on new players at West Ham if the club cashes in on Lucas Paqueta, according to iNews.
The news outlet reported on 6 May that Manchester City are waiting to see the FA’s decision on Paqueta’s alleged betting breaches before deciding to sign him this summer. However, if they do, it could see the Hammers pocket £85million to get Lopetegui off to a strong start in Stratford.
It is understood that Paqueta’s potential exit “would also open the door for a Said Benrahma return” at the London Stadium. He looked finished at West Ham under David Moyes after being sent on loan to Lyon in the winter transfer window.
Who will Julen Lopetegui sign at West Ham United?
West Ham’s squad will no doubt go through a bit of change in the summer transfer window if Lopetegui does what he’s expected to do and replace Moyes as manager in East London.
Lopetegui, David Sullivan and the West Ham fans will definitely want to keep hold of players like Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus, James Ward-Prowse and Edson Alvarez. However, there’s definitely a case for Lopetegui to overhaul the defence he’ll inherit from Moyes, especially given the fact the Irons’ form at the back is as bad as Sheffield United’s lately.
Angelo Ogbonna, Aaron Cresswell and Ben Johnson will be out of contract in the coming weeks. It’s best if they go, really.
Kalvin Phillips’ loan will expire, too. However, it’ll be a shock if there’s any kind of consideration about whether he has a future in claret and blue.
There are then questions up front.
Michail Antonio isn’t the player he once was and West Ham desperately need a new striker in through the door.
That’s where a lot of that £85million should go if Lopetegui does have to sell Paqueta.
In other West Ham news, Tony Cottee has exploded at the board amid reports of a new manager agreement being done.
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