West Ham star Lucas Paqueta could leave in ‘blockbuster’ double deal with Mohammed Kudus
Al Nassr have made an approach to sign West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta, according to TEAMtalk.
The news outlet reported on 17 July that Al Nassr are planning a “sensational “blockbuster” double swoop for Hammers team-mates Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus, and have contacted the Brazilian over a possible transfer.
Flamengo have also approached the Irons with a proposal in the wake of Paqueta’s potential ban for FA betting breaches, albeit the two clubs are yet to reach any kind of agreement on the move [Globo, 17 July].
While Al Nassr are keen on securing both Paqueta and Kudus, TEAMtalk’s report states the Irons’ hierarchy are “determined” to keep hold of the latter in particular this summer.
Will Lucas Paqueta seal a transfer away from West Ham United?
Choosing whether or not to sell Paqueta this summer is one of the biggest decisions the London Stadium hierarchy will have to make this summer, given the potential ramifications either way.
A potentially lengthy ban is hanging over the Brazilian’s head if he is found guilty of FA betting charges, although Paqueta will now reportedly be available for the selection for the majority of next season [The Times, 17 July].
Regardless, his immediate future this summer remains in question, particularly given that prior to the revelation of his charges, Manchester City had been expected to sign the midfielder [HITC, 24 May].
If the Hammers are still planning to partly fund their summer rebuild with the money brought in by selling Paqueta, the emergence of a Saudi Pro League side will be good in the club’s boardroom.
While the total sum of the incoming offer for Kudus and Paqueta is yet to be disclosed, it’s likely to be sizeable enough to help Julen Lopetegui speed along the overhaul of his new-look side.
The Irons will fight tooth and nail to keep hold of Kudus, but if they can still collect a sizeable chunk of that fee for Paqueta alone, expect Al Nassr’s offer to be waved through at haste.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers are readying a bid £16.7million to bring a former Premier League winger back to English shores.
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