West Ham's Lucas Paqueta has been linked with a transfer to Manchester City
West Ham's Lucas Paqueta has been linked with a transfer to Manchester City
Transfers

West Ham United: Lucas Paqueta responds directly to Manchester City transfer rumours

Callum O'Connell
Callum O'Connell

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football correspondent and podcast host with specialist knowledge across the Premier League and SPFL. FOCUS Transfer news, breaking stories, and behind-the-scenes insight across Arsenal, Liverpool, Celtic, and Manchester United. THE INSIGHT Callum utilises a network of club and industry contacts across the Premier League and SPFL to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the depth behind the headlines — from breaking transfer news to behind-the-scenes developments — ensuring fans get the full story as it happens.

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Lucas Paqueta has responded to a direct question about Manchester City transfer links as he admitted he is focusing on working hard for West Ham.

The Brazilian avoided the topic "out of respect" for his current team who he says have helped him evolve as a player during his time in the Premier League.

This comes amid rumours that Pep Guardiola could return with an offer for the West Ham star who was heavily linked with the move to Manchester last summer.

As shared by TNT Sports on X [20 March], Paqueta admitted: "I have a lot of respect for my club, which is West Ham. I've been having a very good season and that has helped me a lot in my evolution in the Premier League.

"So I think that out of respect for them, I have to stay focused on my duty at West Ham and keep working."

Could Lucas Paqueta leave West Ham this summer?

This has come shortly after former Hammers man Frank McAvennie insisted that Paqueta could have his head turned by the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City if they make an offer for them, as he claimed David Sullivan would not say no to a big-money deal.

A move to City looked more likely last summer with Guardiola reportedly keen to bring him in, but an investigation surrounding alleged betting inconsistencies saw any potential deal called off by the reigning Premier League champions.

This season has seen a marked improvement in his game, with a combined eight goal contributions – three goals and five assists – in the Premier League already matching the seven he recorded across the entirety of last season.

The Brazilian's performances this season have earned him high praise as well as his place in the Brazilian national team, with BBC Sport pundit Danny Gabbidon going as far as to claim he is one of the best in the Premier League.

In other West Ham news, Mohammed Kudus injury news has emerged.

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West Ham United
Manchester City
Pep Guardiola
Lucas Paqueta
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