Julen Lopetegui, Lucas Paqueta, West Ham badge
Julen Lopetegui could be readying for Lucas Paqueta's exit at West Ham. Credit: Imago
Harri Burton
Mon 23 December 2024 16:10, UK
Lucas Paqueta has become a much-loved figure since switching the streets of Lyon for his rollercoaster journey at West Ham.
The Hammers are unlikely to have had so much success under David Moyes, such as lifting the Europa Conference League title, without the Brazilian in the squad.
His flair, energy and ability to push the team forward have made him an incredible asset in East London, even pushing forward amid his ongoing betting investigation, to which he has always pleaded innocence.
However, there has been a notable change with the 27-year-old this season, with Julen Lopetegui unable to get the best out of him so far, looking somewhat distracted on the pitch.
His emotional celebrations after netting a penalty against Bournemouth were a clear indicator that his struggles have not only been noticed by the supporters, either.
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And now, with reports suggesting that the player is ready to quit the London Stadium and move back to his homeland [GOAL], it appears Lopetegui might have to start planning for life without him.
West Ham already planning for life without Lucas Paqueta
While a potential exit for Paqueta is just rumoured right now, fans are understandably expecting a January deal to be after being linked with a new playmaker recently.
According to Fichajes, the Hammers are interested in bringing Galatasaray star Hakim Ziyech back to England, with the player stating his clear intentions to leave next month.
The 31-year-old, who was praised for his “magical” left foot during his time at Chelsea [Angelo Mangiante], could be the ideal replacement if Paqueta exits the club in the coming weeks.
Supporters will be very aware of his incredible playmaking skills. The hope would certainly be to help him rediscover his Ajax days, where he notched 49 goals and 81 appearances in 165 games.
West Ham United technical director Tim Steidten
West Ham United technical director Tim Steidten. (Credit: Imago)
He has starred at international level with Morocco, boasting 25 goals and 12 assists in 64 caps, and was even a part of the incredible squad that reached the 2022 World Cup semi-final.
If the Hammers can strike a deal for Ziyech, especially in place of Paqueta, it seems like a no-brainer transfer for Lopetegui and Tim Steidten to crack on with ahead of January.
In other West Ham news, one star was “absolutely brilliant” after what he did against Brighton.
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