West Ham United: Joe Cole moots big-money exit for Lucas Paqueta after display v Newcastle
Joe Cole has insisted West Ham will make a lot of money from the sale of Lucas Paqueta this summer after his performance in the 4-3 loss against Newcastle.
Paqueta showed his worth to David Moyes’ team as he picked out an inch-perfect assist for Michail Antonio to make it 1-1 at St James’ Park before the ultimate collapse of his side.
Cole expressed his excitement at having Brazil’s number ten playing for West Ham, as he was left stunned by his performance against England in the international break.
Speaking live ahead of the game on TNT Sports [10:04], Cole gushed: “That man Paqueta was the best player on the pitch in England v Brazil.
“I don’t know how long they can keep hold of him, but they’ve got Brazil’s number ten playing for West Ham. How much more exciting do you want it?
“He’s not like other number tens that stroll around and let the other lads defend, he’s on it tactically and he’s built differently. He’s a strong lad, big strong legs in the tackle, he’s the complete midfielder for me.
“I can’t see him staying at West Ham, there’ll be too many good clubs who will put in bids, and West Ham will make a lot of money by selling him.”
Joe Cole stunned by Lucas Paqueta for West Ham
Despite the final score against Newcastle, Paqueta’s quality and ability were on display again as shown by the early assist for Antonio, although his impact on the game was not enough to secure an important three points for his team.
Cole is not the first to tip Paqueta for a big move away from the London Stadium, with plenty of links to the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid emerging as a result of his performances under Moyes’ guidance this season.
This has come just days after the Brazilian reassured fans [via TNT Sports, 20 March] that he remains focused on the rest of the season at the London Stadium as he would continue to work hard out of respect for all the club has done for him.
His eye-catching performances for Brazil over the international break, including one in the 1-0 victory against England at Wembley would have done the Hammers no favours in terms of interest ramping up in his signature.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have been tipped to sign a £25million+ star.
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