Lucas Paqueta could leave West Ham with no choice as Aston Villa push for marquee transfer
West Ham are facing a late issue in the transfer window, as Lucas Paqueta could now depart the London Stadium.
Paqueta was cleared of all charges after a two-year investigation into alleged match-fixing, in which West Ham offered their backing and continued to play him.
The Brazil international has struggled to hit his best form during the investigation, with Paqueta failing to provide a Premier League assist in 64 straight games.
Aston Villa are interested in Paqueta, and have now made a bid, leaving West Ham in a tricky position in the final days of the transfer window.
Aston Villa advance in talks for Lucas Paqueta
Aston Villa are keen on signing Paqueta, and are now advancing in talks with West Ham over a potential late transfer.
Fabrizio Romano reported via X on 30 August that talks are progressing between the two sides, and crucially, Paqueta is keen on the move.
- Paqueta has made 123 appearances for West Ham, scoring 20 goals and providing 14 assists.
- The Brazilian has scored twice in his last two games despite West Ham’s woeful start to the season.
- Paqueta is said to now favour a move to Aston Villa
The 27-year-old may be absent from the squad for West Ham’s trip to Nottingham Forest as a result of the transfer talks, and he may have already played his last game for the Hammers.
Karren Brady recently stated that West Ham will keep Paqueta and that he wants to stay, but both the player’s and the club’s stances appear to have changed.
West Ham may have no choice but to sell Lucas Paqueta
Paqueta has two years remaining on his contract at the London Stadium, and given his desire to join Villa, it appears that a new deal is out of the question.
This could be a good time for West Ham to cash in, and for Paqueta to have a fresh start elsewhere.
With little time left in the window, West Ham would have to replace Paqueta, but if they can sign a replacement and profit from Paqueta’s sale, it could benefit them overall.
Arsenal’s Fabio Vieira has been linked, and the Portuguese midfielder could be a fine addition to the midfield if Paqueta departs.
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