West Ham United transfer news as long-term Lucas Paqueta replacement identified

West Ham are joined by Leeds United, Fulham, Celtic and Nottingham Forest in the race to sign Manchester City midfielder James McAtee, according to Caught Offside.

The news outlet reported on 20 November that sources claim the Hammers have identified him as a long-term Lucas Paqueta replacement.

Manchester City are understood to be open to letting him leave for a fee exceeding £20million.

West Ham must prioritise keeping Lucas Paqueta

The club's priority should unequivocally focus on retaining Paqueta, given his importance to the team.

Despite City's willingness to let McAtee go for over £20million, there's no clear indication from the Brazilian himself about wanting to depart.

Paqueta's contributions on the field, both in terms of creativity and goals, have made him a fan favourite and a pivotal part of the squad.

His absence in any capacity would be detrimental, especially considering his role in high-profile games.

If the Hammers hierarchy are considering the 22-year-old as a replacement, it might be more about squad depth or future planning rather than an immediate need, signalling confidence in keeping Paqueta.

Whether or not McAtee arrives, the priority must be to ensure Paqueta goes nowhere.

In other West Ham news, the club are in a six-horse race with their Premier League rivals to sign a striker and have already tabled a bid.

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