It’s been a long wait, but it seems like West Ham United might finally be ready to let go of one of their most high-profile players.
Lucas Paqueta, who once looked set for a massive move to Manchester City, could now leave this summer for a fraction of what the Hammers were originally hoping to bank.
From £80m Dream to a Bargain Exit
Just two years ago, West Ham were staring at a potential £80 million payday when City came knocking for Paqueta.
But that blockbuster deal was put on ice after spot-fixing allegations emerged—accusations that hung over the Brazilian and cast serious doubt on his future in football.
With those charges likely heading toward a verdict of innocence, Paqueta’s stock is quietly rising again.
According to Mail Sport, West Ham are now open to selling him—possibly for as little as £30 million.
FA Investigation Nears a Clear Verdict
The FA’s lengthy probe into claims that Paqueta deliberately earned yellow cards to sway betting outcomes has weighed heavily on both the player and the club.
But now that the independent panel is expected to find him not guilty, doors are reopening.
The official verdict hasn’t been publicly announced yet, but inside football circles, it’s already changing how clubs view him.
Flamengo Keeping a Close Watch
Back in Brazil, Flamengo—Paqueta’s former club—have been keeping tabs.
They’ve already been active in the transfer market this summer, bringing in Jorginho from Arsenal, and are openly chasing European experience.
Their sporting director, Jose Boto, even confirmed to Mail Sport that they’re interested in someone with Paqueta’s background, but they were waiting on the outcome of the investigation before making any move.
More Clubs Expected to Show Interest
With the legal clouds beginning to clear, Paqueta is once again a tempting prospect for several clubs—both in Europe and beyond.
If the FA formally clears him, there’s likely to be a flurry of interest before the transfer window shuts.
At 27, he still has plenty to offer, and his creative spark in midfield makes him a valuable asset—especially at a price tag that’s now well below the earlier £80 million mark.
A Key Moment in His West Ham Legacy
Paqueta’s time in London has had its moments, none bigger than when he set up Jarrod Bowen’s winner in the 2023 Europa Conference League final in Prague.
That performance alone had Manchester City lining up a deal.
He signed for West Ham from Lyon in 2022 for £51 million and is under contract until 2027, with the club holding an option to extend it for another year.
But despite that long-term deal, the Hammers are reportedly ready to listen to offers now.
What Happens Next?
With the FA’s final ruling still pending, all eyes are on how quickly things move once it’s official.
If Paqueta is cleared, it could trigger a late-summer scramble to sign him—whether that’s a return to Flamengo or another shot at a Premier League giant.
For West Ham, it’s a chance to cash in—though for a lot less than they once dreamed of.
And for Paqueta, it could finally be the fresh start he’s been waiting for.