West Ham United stance on Lucas Paqueta after Man City interest

• West Ham does not want to sell Lucas Paqueta this summer, although the player is open to leaving
• The midfielder changed his representatives earlier this summer
• Manchester City have offered West Ham a bid of £70 million for the transfer of Paqueta

West Ham United has declined Manchester City’s informal offer of £70 million for Lucas Paqueta, emphasizing their intent to retain the Brazilian player. Paqueta, a vital asset in David Moyes’ squad during the latter part of the previous season, played a crucial role in West Ham’s memorable victory over Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final. Despite this success and the team’s qualification for the Europa League, reports suggest that Paqueta harbors reservations about his experience under Moyes during the 2022/23 season.

Throughout his time at West Ham, Paqueta has undergone an adjustment in his playing style to align with Moyes’ tactical approach. While his performance levels notably improved post the winter World Cup in Qatar, it’s evident that the tactics of sitting deep and countering employed by West Ham can sometimes stifle his natural instincts.

Amidst these developments, Paqueta severed ties with his long-standing agents earlier this summer. New representatives have since been evaluating potential options for the midfielder during the ongoing transfer window.

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta. Manchester City have offered West Ham a bid of £70 million for the transfer of the Brazilian. | PHOTO: Sky |

READ: West Ham agree transfer for Harry Maguire and James Ward-Prowse

Paris Saint-Germain exhibited interest in Paqueta earlier in the summer and maintained their curiosity about his availability. Additionally, Michael Emenalo, the recently appointed director of the Saudi Pro League, is closely monitoring Paqueta’s situation at West Ham.

Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, have also expressed significant interest in Paqueta and have made a verbal offer of £70 million. However, West Ham has rebuffed this offer, clarifying their reluctance to part with the player. The club, though, has indicated that they would consider an offer that is too compelling to dismiss.

While City’s financial resources are substantial, as evidenced by their £90 million bid for Declan Rice earlier in the summer, it remains uncertain whether they will return with an improved bid for Paqueta. City’s interest arises from their aspiration to fill the void left by Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez, who moved to Barcelona and Al Ahli, respectively. This interest is distinct from any potential sale of Bernardo Silva, as Barcelona’s efforts to recruit Silva have been met with resistance from City.

Further complicating the situation is Newcastle’s long-standing interest in Paqueta. However, adhering to Financial Fair Play regulations might pose a challenge for the club. A potential solution could involve a loan arrangement with an obligation to purchase, but the likelihood of this approach remains uncertain.

In summary, West Ham’s stance on Lucas Paqueta remains resolute, as they declined Manchester City’s offer and expressed their intention to retain the player. Paqueta’s performance and tactical adaptation, combined with interest from multiple clubs, have brought him under the spotlight. As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether City or other interested parties will return with revised offers, reshaping Paqueta’s future in the footballing landscape.