West Ham United will reportedly demand around £42.5 million to part ways with 28-year-old Brazilian playmaker Lucas Paqueta amid his links with Flamengo.
According to an update by Brazilian journalist Vene Casagrande, Lucas Paqueta is the subject of interest from Flamengo. The Brazilian giants are keen on reinforcing their offensive unit by signing a playmaker in the winter transfer window. So, the 28-year-old West Ham United attacker has emerged as a target for them.
However, a January move will not be straightforward, as West Ham will demand around £42.5 million to part ways with the South American playmaker. Additionally, the Hammers want to sell Paqueta in the summer transfer window. So, with Flamengo aware that the negotiations won’t be “easy” for a deal, they “will work to try to convince the English team” for an agreement this month.
How has Lucas Paqueta fared at West Ham United?
Lucas Paqueta has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining West Ham United from Lyon in a deal worth around £51 million in August 2022. The 28-year-old hit the ground running at the London Stadium, and his productivity immediately made him a mainstay in the final third for the East London outfit.
However, a spot-fixing scandal from two years ago has marred Paqueta’s spell in the Premier League, and he has been inconsistent since then. The Brazilian international has made nearly 150 appearances for West Ham thus far while chipping in with 23 goals and 15 assists. Meanwhile, the player’s stock is high, with Flamengo among the prospective suitors vying for his signature in the winter transfer window.
Homecoming on the cards?
Lucas Paqueta has been on Flamengo’s radar for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as the Brazilian giants are scouring the market for a top-class playmaker who can make the difference in the final third. Their former player has thus emerged as a viable target for Fla.
However, a January move will not be straightforward, as West Ham will demand around £42.5 million to part ways with the 28-year-old playmaker. Additionally, the Hammers want to sell Paqueta in the summer transfer window. So, while Paqueta wants to rejoin Flamengo this month, a deal may be a tall order.
Additionally, recent reports have linked the Brazilian international with several high-profile clubs, including Chelsea. However, Paqueta’s desire to rejoin Flamengo means the South American outfit “will work to try to convince the English team” for an agreement in the winter transfer window.
