Lucas Paqueta makes new West Ham United transfer admission amid Manchester City speculation
West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has made a new transfer admission amid growing interest from Manchester City ahead of the transfer window.
The Brazilian was linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium last summer, but such a switch never materialised. However, reports suggest that the Premier League champions are targeting the Irons star again this year [FootMercato, 15 April].
While Paqueta admits that he is aware of reports linking him with a summer move to City, the Irons star has insisted that his focus is entirely on finishing the season strongly as he is “very happy” at the London Stadium.
As quoted by ESPN on Saturday (27 April) he said: “I have to do my job here at West Ham. I have great respect for the club. I’m very happy here. If you say no, I’ll be lying.
“Of course, it involves a lot of things that are happening off the field, but I’m still focused on doing my best, and finishing the season well. I started well, I hope to finish well. What they say (about Manchester City) is everything from the last window.
“Now, it’s time to finish the season and wait for what will happen.”
Will Lucas Paqueta leave West Ham United in the transfer window amid Manchester City interest?
West Ham have been a much better side this season when Paqueta has been playing. The Brazilian can occasionally be a bit of a loose cannon, but he is always capable of turning a game completely on its head with a single action.
His ability on the ball is as good as anyone else in the London Stadium changing room and he is never afraid to get involved out of possession. It shouldn’t be a surprise that other teams are keen to secure his services.
Keeping him in East London won’t be easy. Manchester City typically get their man when it comes to the transfer market and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Brazilian lining up in sky blue come the start of next season.
However, the Hammers can at least ensure they get a good price for his signature, as they did with Declan Rice nearly 12 months ago. Hopefully, David Moyes and those above him will find a way to keep him, if not, the Irons will have a lot of money to spend.
In other West Ham news, Chris Sutton has torn into the “dirty” Hammers for “disrespectful” Moyes developments at the London Stadium
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