Lucas Paqueta could be joined in Brazil by player West Ham recently said goodbye to
Lucas Paqueta’s West Ham exit was far from straightforward.
After a long-winded transfer saga, Paqueta rejoined former side Flamengo after the Hammers accepted a bid of £36.5million from the Brazilian outfit.
The 28-year-old spent three-and-a-half years at the London Stadium and was a big part of the team that won the 2023 UEFA Conference League.
Fans weren’t happy to see Paqueta leave, and he could be playing against a former West Ham player very soon.
Igor Julio could face Lucas Paqueta by joining fellow Brazilian side
Igor Julio showed signs of promise on his only start against Bournemouth in November, but he ultimately wasn’t trusted by Nuno Espirito Santo.
His loan spell was terminated by Brighton in the transfer window, and West Ham signed Axel Disasi from Chelsea on loan as his replacement.
According to Brazilian journalist Samuel Venancio via X on 3 February, Igor has become a target for Cruzeiro.
| Stat | Igor |
| Appearances | 4 |
| Starts | 1 |
| Pass accuracy | 72.7% |
| Touches | 43 |
However, it is also suggested Brighton are unwilling to sanction another loan for the defender and will only consider a permanent sale.
Palmeiras were previously interested, but they were put off by the £6m fee that the Seagulls were asking for.
Despite Cruzeiro’s financial struggles, they are under pressure to sign a centre-back, and they have until 3 March to secure the deal.
Cruzeiro’s first game against Flamengo in 2026 is on 12 March, and there is a high possibility that Igor could be playing against Paqueta in the Brazilian Serie A.
How did Paqueta do in his first game for Flamengo?
Paqueta only wanted to join Flamengo, despite there being interest from the likes of Aston Villa and Tottenham.
He came on as a substitute in their Super Cup final against Corinthians, but his debut certainly didn’t go to plan.
Paqueta’s side lost 2-0, although the 28-year-old midfielder had a golden opportunity to level the scoreline.
In the 94th minute, the ball broke to him six yards out, but he could only put his volley over the bar.
Corinthians killed the game off just moments later, and Hammers fans may have been secretly pleased to see him get off to a poor start.
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