West Ham budge in Lucas Paqueta sale stance as Flamengo talks update shared
West Ham are taking steps in the right direction to solve what looks like Lucas Paqueta’s inevitable fate.
Paqueta wants to join Flamengo in a permanent deal that would see him return to his homeland of Brazil.
The Hammers have so far been reluctant to sell their key midfielder, even after Flamengo offered £30.3million for the 28-year-old.
Nuno Espirito Santo does not want to lose Paqueta in the January transfer window, but the Brazilian’s exit fee would surely give the head coach more funds to play with in the market.
Now, Flamengo have new confidence that Paqueta will be theirs come the end of the window, as fresh talks with the Irons are set to commence in the following days, as per Fabrizio Romano.
Flamengo receive positive feedback from West Ham over Lucas Paqueta
Ever since Paqueta has faced legal issues in E20, it feels like the creative midfielder has been on a downward spiral at the London Stadium.
The former Lyon star has been a key asset for the Hammers over the years, but this season his form hasn’t been the best.
- Paqueta has started all 18 of the Premier League games that he has been involved in
- He has four goals, including two from the penalty spot
- Paqueta has one assist for the Hammers in two seasons
West Ham are trying to stay in the Premier League, and some supporters have suggested that the Brazilian’s work ethic isn’t cut out for a relegation scrap.
Still, David Sullivan has shown signs that he does not want to sell Paqueta, but things appear to eb changing after the latest update.
Journalist Rodrigo Mattos has provided an update on the situation through his X account, reporting that West Ham have, for the first time, informed Flamengo that they are open to selling Paqueta.
A financial agreement has yet to be reached, but the Irons could do with wrapping up a dealsoon.
- Read more: Exit-linked West Ham star Callum Wilson sends two-word message as Premier League deal done
West Ham can reach compromise with Flamengo over Paqueta fee
Flamengo’s initial £30.3m bid was a low-ball offer, as the Brazilian side may have thought they could have got Paqueta on a cheap deal, all things considered.
The Hammers are believed to be holding out for £51million, but how much Flamengo have to spend is unknown at this stage.
£40m would be a sensible amount for the sides to settle on, and would give the Irons a great amount for Nuno to use on re-investing into his own squad.
Sullivan has proved that he’s not shy of spending this window, so a deal for Paqueta needs to be agreed as soon as possible for the benefit of all parties.
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