West Ham owner David Sullivan intends to keep Lucas Paqueta beyond Monday’s transfer deadline, TBR Football understands.
Lucas Paqueta has told West Ham he would like to join Aston Villa, who made moves earlier this week.
Paqueta was informed by West Ham earlier in the summer that the club was open to offers for him.
The Saudi Pro League are keen and have held talks, but it is Villa who have come strongest.
Lucas Paqueta in action during Sunderland v West Ham United in the Premier League
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Unai Emery, who is keen on bringing Marco Asensio back to the club, would love to add Paqueta too.
Sources: West Ham intend to keep Lucas Paqueta amid Aston Villa interest
TBR Football understands through chief correspondent Graeme Bailey that despite Villa’s interest, the West Ham owner has no intention of letting the Brazilian midfielder go before Monday’s deadline.
Villa told West Ham they would pay around £45m for the Brazilian… but their issues with meeting financial regulations mean they are offering a loan with obligation.
West Ham were convinced the deal was right for them, and they have now decided that Paqueta won’t be leaving.
Paqueta was also linked with Tottenham, but they instead went for Xavi Simons, hijacking a Chelsea deal.
It remains to be seen if Paqueta will feature in Sunday’s clash at Nottingham Forest. It is also believed defender Nayef Aguerd is looking to leave before Monday and may also miss the game.
West Ham need to keep Lucas Paqueta
Sullivan’s desire to keep the 28-year-old will come as no surprise given Graham Potter’s less-than-desirable start to the Premier League season.
It’s early days, but already West Ham find themselves among the teams struggling at the bottom of the Premier League table.
With money scarce at West Ham for signings, keeping hold of players almost holds more – if not higher – value. Such is the case with Paqueta.
Sullivan has had his say – and it looks like the creative spark in the Hammers’ side will remain a part of the team for at least another window more.