Lucas Paqueta
(Credit:Imago)
Carla Devine
Wed 25 June 2025 11:30, UK
Lucas Paqueta’s future still hangs very much in the balance at West Ham.
Although the summer transfer window usually throws up uncertainty regarding a player’s future at their club, for Paqueta, the consequences are much bigger.
As he awaits the outcome of the FA’s hearing over alleged betting offences, being found guilty could result in a lifetime ban, ending his career.
With West Ham worrying about PSR restrictions this summer, not knowing what the future holds leaves them in a state of uncertainty, too.
London Stadium, West Ham
Paqueta’s future at the London Stadium is uncertain. (Credit: Imago)
Paqueta could leave West Ham
Paqueta has been a core part of the West Ham squad since he arrived at the London Stadium back in 2022.
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Before the FA brought charges against him, Manchester City were interested in making a move for his services, although with the uncertainty, that was called off.
The FA hearing over the alleged offences has concluded, but the outcome of the investigation is yet to be shared with all parties in the dark for the time being.
Appearances Goals Assists
33 4 0
Paqueta has struggled with the case being a distraction.
The 27-year-old has denied any wrongdoing, but until an outcome is delivered, it is unlikely to see any transfer activity.
Manchester City have moved on, having signed former West Ham target Rayan Cherki instead, but if he is able to keep playing, there could be new offers on the table.
Speaking live on talkSPORT (25 June, 9:29 am), Irons supporter Ray Winstone admitted he doesn’t see the Brazilian staying put, saying: “Paqueta’s had this ridiculous charge hanging over him for many, many, many months and I guess they’re just holding on to see what happens there.
“I think he’s a wonderful player, but I think he’ll probably go.”
West Ham need to know Paqueta outcome
West Ham, Graham Potter and Paqueta all find themselves in a frustrating position as they await the outcome of the investigation to get a clear picture of what the future holds.
With the East London outfit needing to offload some of their bigger-money players to help free up cash to spend on new additions, selling the Brazilian could prove to be a big boost.
As it stands, though, it is a risky move for any potential suitor due to the massive risk of a lifetime ban that hangs over his head.
It was reported that Flamengo are willing to take advantage of the situation, as they look to take the playmaker back to Brazil for a fee of £29.5m.
However, this could be a massive decrease in value compared to what the Irons could get from elsewhere in England.
For now, like Winstone says, West Ham may be hanging on to see how soon they can get an answer, but as the summer continues, they may have to bite the bullet and cash in at a lower price.
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